National Handloom Day 2026: From Alia Bhatt to Samantha Ruth Prabhu; Actresses who celebrated India's textile heritage as brides

The Royals enter the Doctor Who universe: King Charles and Queen Camilla beam into Commonwealth Games in TARDIS

Unitree Robotics targets $9 billion valuation in landmark IPO backed by DeepSeek and Tencent

India names 27 sites in Arunachal Pradesh

Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata OTT: When will Kangana Ranaut's film stream online?

How many soldiers operate one S-400 battery?

Shakib Al Hasan ready to return to Bangladesh—under one condition

‘Fake news’: MEA rejects report claiming India sought defence pact with Israel after Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey deal

Rockstar to unveil GTA 6 extended look ahead of November launch

Russia forms Ukrainian Volunteer Spetsnaz Brigade to fight Ukraine

Drug-resistant fungus that hides in hair and enters bloodstream reported in 23 US states

Technology transfer deal boosts India's defence manufacturing ambitions

Border row erupts in Europe after Ceuta crossings, Spain imposes border controls on Italy

Morale plummets on USS Abraham Lincoln: Are US sailors reaching a breaking point? | GRAVITAS

'Security can't be bought with Pakistan, Turkey deal': Iran tells Saudi Arabia

Baba Vanga's 2026 prophecy: 2 predictions 'already came true', 3 terrifying ones remain. Details inside

Colombia’s new president Abelardo de la Espriella vows to ‘defeat narco-terrorists’, signals hardline shift

New Friday OTT releases (August 7, 2026): Operation Safed Sagar, Vadhandhi, Main Vaapis Aaunga- 6 movies and TV shows on Netflix, Prime Video and more

Squadron Leader Bhawana Kanth scripts history as Indian Air Force gets its first woman ‘Top Gun’ pilot

RSS says Gen Z protests reflect genuine distress

Trump says Iranian school bombing photos could be AI-generated - 'I don’t think...'

IAF officer held for sharing sensitive information in 'honey trap' case, booked under Official Secrets Act

Stray Kids under scrutiny? Fans react to Grammy submission silence after BTS boycott

Why the Su-30MKI doesn't need external fuel tanks to fly vast distances

Jugal Hansraj reunites with Shekhar Kapur after 40 years for Masoom: The Next Generation

New speed limits, automatic challans: Big traffic change coming to Delhi-Meerut Expressway. All you need to know

India officially names 27 places in Arunachal to counter China's renaming claims

Trump calls White House ballroom ruling a 'national disgrace' as court says Congress approval needed

US sanctions Iran’s crypto network after Strait of Hormuz attacks, offers $15m bounty for intel on IRGC finance

Why the Su-30MKI is one of the heaviest fighters ever built

Uttarakhand young innovator builds India's own flying vehicle, conducts first test flight: WATCH

Chilling video shows students take cover as teen opens fire at Thai school

Reese Witherspoon's father hospitalised after poolside incident in Nashville: Report

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Saturday (Oct 11) that Tehran was willing to consider a “reasonable, balanced, and fair” nuclear proposal from the United States, but stressed that no such offer has been received yet. “If we receive a reasonable, balanced, and fair proposal from the Americans for negotiations, we will certainly consider it,” Araghchi told state television. He emphasised, however, that Iran will continue enriching uranium while exploring measures to build international trust in the peaceful nature of its nuclear program.<h2>Iran says it all depends on the US</h2>The Iranian Foreign Minister said that any progress in the US-Iran nuclear talks would be conditional on the US taking reciprocal steps, such as lifting some sanctions. "Of course, this is conditional on the other side also taking steps to build trust — by lifting part of the sanctions," he said, adding that the two countries were reportedly exchanging messages through mediators.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-to-begin-releasing-israeli-hostages-monday-ahead-of-trump-s-egypt-peace-summit-1760228718161">Hamas to begin releasing Israeli hostages starting THIS day</a><h2>Nuclear talks remain tense</h2>Tensions between Iran and the US have escalated after five rounds of nuclear negotiations stalled, further complicated by a twelve-day conflict in June this year. During that war, the US supported Israel in strikes against key Iranian nuclear sites.While Iran insists its nuclear activities are peaceful, the US and several European allies demand a complete halt to uranium enrichment.<h2>Iran on Gaza ceasefire and Israel</h2>Araghchi also weighed in on the Gaza ceasefire after two years of war. He expressed strong distrust of Israel, calling it the “Zionist regime” and accusing it of violating previous ceasefire agreements. Still, he said Iran supports any plan that halts Israeli attacks.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/miracle-amid-horror-tennessee-factory-explosion-kills-16-two-workers-found-alive-foul-play-not-ruled-out-1760232092440">Miracle amid horror: Tennessee factory explosion kills 16, two workers found alive — foul play not ruled out</a>“We warn about the tricks and betrayals of the Zionist regime (Israel) regarding previous agreements... There is absolutely no trust in the Zionist regime,” he said, adding “Any plan that serves to halt these (Israel's) crimes has always had our support.”Araghchi also dismissed any possibility of Iran joining the Abraham Accords, calling US President Donald Trump’s suggestion “wishful thinking.” He reaffirmed that Tehran will never recognise Israel, which he accused of genocide and killing children.&nbsp;

Iran says it’s open to “fair” US nuclear talks but won’t stop uranium enrichment, stressing progress depends on US sanctions relief. 

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Saturday (Oct 11) that Tehran was willing to consider a “reasonable, balanced, and fair” nuclear proposal from the United States, but stressed that no such offer has been received yet. “If we receive a reasonable, balanced, and fair proposal from the Americans for negotiations, we will certainly consider it,” Araghchi told state television. He emphasised, however, that Iran will continue enriching uranium while exploring measures to build international trust in the peaceful nature of its nuclear program. Iran says it all depends on the US The Iranian Foreign Minister said that any progress in the US-Iran nuclear talks would be conditional on the US taking reciprocal steps, such as lifting some sanctions. "Of course, this is conditional on the other side also taking steps to build trust — by lifting part of the sanctions," he said, adding that the two countries were reportedly exchanging messages through mediators. Also read | Hamas to begin releasing Israeli hostages starting THIS day Nuclear talks remain tense Tensions between Iran and the US have escalated after five rounds of nuclear negotiations stalled, further complicated by a twelve-day conflict in June this year. During that war, the US supported Israel in strikes against key Iranian nuclear sites. While Iran insists its nuclear activities are peaceful, the US and several European allies demand a complete halt to uranium enrichment. Iran on Gaza ceasefire and Israel Araghchi also weighed in on the Gaza ceasefire after two years of war. He expressed strong distrust of Israel, calling it the “Zionist regime” and accusing it of violating previous ceasefire agreements. Still, he said Iran supports any plan that halts Israeli attacks. Also read | Miracle amid horror: Tennessee factory explosion kills 16, two workers found alive — foul play not ruled out “We warn about the tricks and betrayals of the Zionist regime (Israel) regarding previous agreements... There is absolutely no trust in the Zionist regime,” he said, adding “Any plan that serves to halt these (Israel's) crimes has always had our support.” Araghchi also dismissed any possibility of Iran joining the Abraham Accords, calling US President Donald Trump’s suggestion “wishful thinking.” He reaffirmed that Tehran will never recognise Israel, which he accused of genocide and killing children.

Iran says it’s open to “fair” US nuclear talks but won’t stop uranium enrichment, stressing progress depends on US sanctions relief.&nbsp;

Iran says open to 'fair' nuclear talks but vows it won’t halt uranium enrichment

A powerful explosion ripped through an explosives factory in Bucksnort, Tennessee, killing 16 people and injuring several others, local authorities said Saturday (Oct 11). The death toll has been lowered after two people earlier presumed dead were found alive. The blast on Friday (Oct 10) destroyed an entire building at the Accurate Energetic Systems-owned plant, which manufactures explosives for military and demolition use. The explosion was so intense that it shook homes miles away and sent debris flying across the area.<h2>Miracle: Two workers were found alive</h2>Officials had initially feared 18 people were dead, but the toll was revised after two missing workers were found alive. “We have been able to locate and determine the two other folks (were) not on the site,” Humphreys County Sheriff Chris Davis said in a statement. Initially, with their vehicles and personal items found at the scene of the blast, authorities had assumed they fell victim to the tragedy.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-no-survivors-after-massive-blast-at-explosives-plant-in-tennessee-says-sheriff-1760203068947">‘No survivors’ after massive blast at Tennessee explosives plant, says sheriff</a><h2>What happened? What caused the blast?</h2>Accurate Energetic Systems described the incident as “a tragic accident,” while investigators from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) said the cause remains unclear.We “are not any closer today to determining the origin and cause of this explosion,” ATF official Brice McCracken told reporters late Saturday.Authorities have not ruled out foul play. In an earlier statement, Sheriff Davis said, "Can I say we're going to rule out foul play? We can't answer that". He added that it could take “days, weeks, or months” before they determine what triggered the blast.Special teams are moving cautiously through the wreckage, calling in bomb technicians when necessary. DNA testing will be used to identify the victims.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-to-begin-releasing-israeli-hostages-monday-ahead-of-trump-s-egypt-peace-summit-1760228718161">Hamas to begin releasing Israeli hostages Monday ahead of Trump's Egypt peace summit</a>

A day after a massive explosion tore through Accurate Energetic Systems’ explosives plant in Bucksnort, Tennessee, the death toll has been lowered to 16 after two workers initially presumed dead were found alive.

A powerful explosion ripped through an explosives factory in Bucksnort, Tennessee, killing 16 people and injuring several others, local authorities said Saturday (Oct 11). The death toll has been lowered after two people earlier presumed dead were found alive. The blast on Friday (Oct 10) destroyed an entire building at the Accurate Energetic Systems-owned plant, which manufactures explosives for military and demolition use. The explosion was so intense that it shook homes miles away and sent debris flying across the area. Miracle: Two workers were found alive Officials had initially feared 18 people were dead, but the toll was revised after two missing workers were found alive. “We have been able to locate and determine the two other folks (were) not on the site,” Humphreys County Sheriff Chris Davis said in a statement. Initially, with their vehicles and personal items found at the scene of the blast, authorities had assumed they fell victim to the tragedy. Also read | ‘No survivors’ after massive blast at Tennessee explosives plant, says sheriff What happened? What caused the blast? Accurate Energetic Systems described the incident as “a tragic accident,” while investigators from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) said the cause remains unclear. We “are not any closer today to determining the origin and cause of this explosion,” ATF official Brice McCracken told reporters late Saturday. Authorities have not ruled out foul play. In an earlier statement, Sheriff Davis said, "Can I say we're going to rule out foul play? We can't answer that". He added that it could take “days, weeks, or months” before they determine what triggered the blast. Special teams are moving cautiously through the wreckage, calling in bomb technicians when necessary. DNA testing will be used to identify the victims. Also read | Hamas to begin releasing Israeli hostages Monday ahead of Trump's Egypt peace summit

A day after a massive explosion tore through Accurate Energetic Systems’ explosives plant in Bucksnort, Tennessee, the death toll has been lowered to 16 after two workers initially presumed dead were found alive.

Miracle amid horror: Tennessee factory explosion kills 16, two workers found alive — foul play not ruled out

Hamas will begin releasing Israeli hostages held in Gaza on Monday morning, a senior official from the group told AFP. As part of the first phase of the deal, Hamas will free the captives — 20 of whom Israel believes are still alive — in exchange for nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. “According to the signed agreement, the prisoner exchange is set to begin on Monday morning as agreed,” Hamas official Osama Hamdan said Saturday (Oct 11). The exchange will take place ahead of an international summit chaired by US President Donald Trump and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi in the Red Sea resort of Sharm el-Sheikh.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-miracles-happen-when-courage-meets-conviction-trump-envoy-steve-witkoff-tells-rally-at-hostages-square-1760211910173">‘Miracles happen when courage meets conviction,’ Trump envoy Steve Witkoff tells rally at Hostages’ Square</a><h2>Over 20 nations to take part in international peace summit</h2>The Egyptian presidency said more than 20 countries will attend the meeting, aimed at bringing about an end to “the war in the Gaza Strip, enhance efforts to achieve peace and stability in the Middle East, and usher in a new era of regional security and stability.”UN Secretary-General António Guterres, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Italy’s Giorgia Meloni, Spain’s Pedro Sanchez, and French President Emmanuel Macron have confirmed attendance. However, as per reports, there was no immediate word on whether Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will be present. Hamas said it will not take part directly, saying it had "acted principally through... Qatari and Egyptian mediators".Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-if-war-can-be-stopped-in-one-region-zelensky-calls-on-trump-to-broker-russia-ukraine-ceasefire-after-peace-in-gaza-1760192521102">Zelensky calls on Trump to broker Russia-Ukraine ceasefire after peace in Gaza</a><h2>Complex second phase</h2>Despite the breakthrough, talks on the next phase remain uncertain. Hamas officials say the second stage of Trump’s plan — which calls for the group to hand over weapons and step aside from governing Gaza — “contains many complexities.” One Hamas official, speaking to AFP on the condition of anonymity, said disarming was “out of the question.”Under Trump’s proposal, Israel will conduct a phased withdrawal from Gaza’s cities, to be replaced by a multinational force involving Egypt, Qatar, Turkey, and the UAE, coordinated through a US-led command centre in Israel.

Hamas said it will start releasing Israeli hostages on Monday in exchange for nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. The move precedes a major peace summit in Egypt led by Trump and el-Sisi, with over 20 nations attending. 

Hamas will begin releasing Israeli hostages held in Gaza on Monday morning, a senior official from the group told AFP. As part of the first phase of the deal, Hamas will free the captives — 20 of whom Israel believes are still alive — in exchange for nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. “According to the signed agreement, the prisoner exchange is set to begin on Monday morning as agreed,” Hamas official Osama Hamdan said Saturday (Oct 11). The exchange will take place ahead of an international summit chaired by US President Donald Trump and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi in the Red Sea resort of Sharm el-Sheikh. Also read | ‘Miracles happen when courage meets conviction,’ Trump envoy Steve Witkoff tells rally at Hostages’ Square Over 20 nations to take part in international peace summit The Egyptian presidency said more than 20 countries will attend the meeting, aimed at bringing about an end to “the war in the Gaza Strip, enhance efforts to achieve peace and stability in the Middle East, and usher in a new era of regional security and stability.” UN Secretary-General António Guterres, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Italy’s Giorgia Meloni, Spain’s Pedro Sanchez, and French President Emmanuel Macron have confirmed attendance. However, as per reports, there was no immediate word on whether Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will be present. Hamas said it will not take part directly, saying it had "acted principally through... Qatari and Egyptian mediators". Also read | Zelensky calls on Trump to broker Russia-Ukraine ceasefire after peace in Gaza Complex second phase Despite the breakthrough, talks on the next phase remain uncertain. Hamas officials say the second stage of Trump’s plan — which calls for the group to hand over weapons and step aside from governing Gaza — “contains many complexities.” One Hamas official, speaking to AFP on the condition of anonymity, said disarming was “out of the question.” Under Trump’s proposal, Israel will conduct a phased withdrawal from Gaza’s cities, to be replaced by a multinational force involving Egypt, Qatar, Turkey, and the UAE, coordinated through a US-led command centre in Israel.

Hamas said it will start releasing Israeli hostages on Monday in exchange for nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. The move precedes a major peace summit in Egypt led by Trump and el-Sisi, with over 20 nations attending.&nbsp;

Hamas to begin releasing Israeli hostages Monday ahead of Trump's Egypt peace summit

US President Donald Trump’s Special Envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, addressed Israelis, who gathered at Tel Aviv’s Hostages’ Square on Saturday evening ahead of the scheduled release of hostages by Hamas, and said miracles can happen when courage meets conviction. He was joined by Ivanka Trump, the US president’s daughter, and her husband, Jared Kushner. “When courage meets conviction, miracles can happen,” Witkoff told the audience. “You have carried the weight of hope on your shoulders for the entire world. You’ve prayed, you’ve persevered. And you’ve shown the world that peace is not weakness. It is the highest form of strength. Through heartbreak and fear, you have never let go of the faith.”&nbsp;“First and foremost I want to honour the people of Israel. Your courage and endurance inspired the world,” Witkoff said.&nbsp;“We stand here tonight, Jews, Christians, Muslims, and people from every corner of the world, united by one shared prayer, for peace,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-president-joe-biden-starts-undergoing-radiation-therapy-for-aggressive-cancer-1760191355285">Former US president Joe Biden starts undergoing radiation therapy for ‘aggressive’ cancer</a><h2>‘We all owe a debt of deep gratitude to President Trump’</h2>&nbsp;When Witkoff remarked how he wished Trump had been able to attend, saying, “I wish the president was here, he would love this,” the crowd erupted into chants of “Thank you, Trump.”&nbsp;“We all owe a debt of deep gratitude to President Trump,” he said.&nbsp;WATCH: Breaking: US Envoy Steve Witkoff addresses the families of hostages in Tel Aviv<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-us-envoy-steve-witkoff-addresses-the-families-of-hostages-in-tel-aviv-1760205936908/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-us-envoy-steve-witkoff-addresses-the-families-of-hostages-in-tel-aviv-1760205936908/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Members of the crowd booed when Witkoff mentioned Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, but the American envoy insisted that the prime minister was instrumental in bringing the deal to fruition. He also thanked the other regional nations that helped make the deal possible.&nbsp;“Your courage has moved the world,” Wikoff said to families of the hostages.&nbsp;“To the hostages themselves: you are coming home,” he said, prompting applause and cheers.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-no-survivors-after-massive-blast-at-explosives-plant-in-tennessee-says-sheriff-1760203068947">‘No survivors’ after massive blast at explosives plant in Tennessee, says sheriff</a>&nbsp;Witkoff handed the microphone to Jared Kushner, who said he “couldn’t be prouder to be a friend of Israel”.&nbsp;He then called for lasting peace in the Middle East, and thanked the crowd for their efforts to bring the hostages home.&nbsp;Ivanka Trump, in her short address, said, “God bless you all for standing in solidarity together through this dark chapter.”&nbsp;“The return of each hostage is not only a moment of homecoming but also of triumph of courage and our shared humanity,” she added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-moves-palestinian-prisoners-ahead-of-their-release-under-gaza-ceasefire-deal-1760195518820">Israel moves Palestinian prisoners ahead of their release under Gaza ceasefire deal</a>&nbsp;The trio then left the stage as the repeated cheers of “Thank you, Trump” rang out from the crowd.&nbsp;Earlier, Steve Witkoff waved to the crowds as he entered Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square to address the rally organized by the Hostages Families Forum. Witkoff and Kushner were involved in drawing up the plan to end the war in Gaza.

Members of the crowd booed when Witkoff mentioned Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, but the American envoy insisted that the prime minister was instrumental in bringing the deal to fruition. Witkoff also thanked the other regional nations that helped make the deal possible.

US President Donald Trump’s Special Envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, addressed Israelis, who gathered at Tel Aviv’s Hostages’ Square on Saturday evening ahead of the scheduled release of hostages by Hamas, and said miracles can happen when courage meets conviction. He was joined by Ivanka Trump, the US president’s daughter, and her husband, Jared Kushner. “When courage meets conviction, miracles can happen,” Witkoff told the audience. “You have carried the weight of hope on your shoulders for the entire world. You’ve prayed, you’ve persevered. And you’ve shown the world that peace is not weakness. It is the highest form of strength. Through heartbreak and fear, you have never let go of the faith.” “First and foremost I want to honour the people of Israel. Your courage and endurance inspired the world,” Witkoff said. “We stand here tonight, Jews, Christians, Muslims, and people from every corner of the world, united by one shared prayer, for peace,” he said. Also Read: Former US president Joe Biden starts undergoing radiation therapy for ‘aggressive’ cancer ‘We all owe a debt of deep gratitude to President Trump’ When Witkoff remarked how he wished Trump had been able to attend, saying, “I wish the president was here, he would love this,” the crowd erupted into chants of “Thank you, Trump.” “We all owe a debt of deep gratitude to President Trump,” he said. WATCH: Breaking: US Envoy Steve Witkoff addresses the families of hostages in Tel Aviv https://www.wionews.com/videos/breaking-us-envoy-steve-witkoff-addresses-the-families-of-hostages-in-tel-aviv-1760205936908/embed Members of the crowd booed when Witkoff mentioned Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, but the American envoy insisted that the prime minister was instrumental in bringing the deal to fruition. He also thanked the other regional nations that helped make the deal possible. “Your courage has moved the world,” Wikoff said to families of the hostages. “To the hostages themselves: you are coming home,” he said, prompting applause and cheers. Also Read: ‘No survivors’ after massive blast at explosives plant in Tennessee, says sheriff Witkoff handed the microphone to Jared Kushner, who said he “couldn’t be prouder to be a friend of Israel”. He then called for lasting peace in the Middle East, and thanked the crowd for their efforts to bring the hostages home. Ivanka Trump, in her short address, said, “God bless you all for standing in solidarity together through this dark chapter.” “The return of each hostage is not only a moment of homecoming but also of triumph of courage and our shared humanity,” she added. Also Read: Israel moves Palestinian prisoners ahead of their release under Gaza ceasefire deal The trio then left the stage as the repeated cheers of “Thank you, Trump” rang out from the crowd. Earlier, Steve Witkoff waved to the crowds as he entered Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square to address the rally organized by the Hostages Families Forum. Witkoff and Kushner were involved in drawing up the plan to end the war in Gaza.

Members of the crowd booed when Witkoff mentioned Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, but the American envoy insisted that the prime minister was instrumental in bringing the deal to fruition. Witkoff also thanked the other regional nations that helped make the deal possible.

‘Miracles happen when courage meets conviction,’ Trump envoy Steve Witkoff tells rally at Hostages’ Square

President Donald Trump said Saturday he has issued an order for the military to be paid next week despite the government shutdown in which many civil servants work without salary.Trump said he ordered Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth "to use all available funds to get our Troops PAID on October 15th" as he again blamed Democrats for the funding deadlock now in its second week."I will not allow the Democrats to hold our Military, and the entire Security of our Nation, HOSTAGE, with their dangerous Government Shutdown," he wrote on his Truth Social platform.Nonessential government work stopped after the September 30 funding deadline, with Senate Democrats repeatedly blocking a Republican resolution to reopen federal agencies.The sticking point has been a refusal by Republicans to include language in the bill to address expiring subsidies that make health insurance affordable for 24 million Americans.That meant hundreds of thousands of government workers were put on temporary unpaid leave or deemed essential and ordered to work without pay.About 1.3 million active-duty military personnel were set to miss their pay due next Wednesday -- something that has not happened in any of the funding shutdowns through modern history.The White House said Friday it had begun mass layoffs of federal workers as Trump sought to amp up pressure on opposition Democrats to end a government shutdown that has crippled public services.It plans to lay off some 4,000 workers across several government agencies, according to court filing seeking to block the action.Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The White House said Friday it had begun mass layoffs of federal workers as Trump sought to amp up pressure on opposition Democrats to end a government shutdown that has crippled public services.

President Donald Trump said Saturday he has issued an order for the military to be paid next week despite the government shutdown in which many civil servants work without salary. Trump said he ordered Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth "to use all available funds to get our Troops PAID on October 15th" as he again blamed Democrats for the funding deadlock now in its second week. "I will not allow the Democrats to hold our Military, and the entire Security of our Nation, HOSTAGE, with their dangerous Government Shutdown," he wrote on his Truth Social platform. Nonessential government work stopped after the September 30 funding deadline, with Senate Democrats repeatedly blocking a Republican resolution to reopen federal agencies. The sticking point has been a refusal by Republicans to include language in the bill to address expiring subsidies that make health insurance affordable for 24 million Americans. That meant hundreds of thousands of government workers were put on temporary unpaid leave or deemed essential and ordered to work without pay. About 1.3 million active-duty military personnel were set to miss their pay due next Wednesday -- something that has not happened in any of the funding shutdowns through modern history. The White House said Friday it had begun mass layoffs of federal workers as Trump sought to amp up pressure on opposition Democrats to end a government shutdown that has crippled public services. It plans to lay off some 4,000 workers across several government agencies, according to court filing seeking to block the action. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The White House said Friday it had begun mass layoffs of federal workers as Trump sought to amp up pressure on opposition Democrats to end a government shutdown that has crippled public services.

Trump orders Pentagon chief ‘to use all available funds’ to pay troops as shutdown drags on

New Delhi: Plans are in the works for the visit of Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to India in the next few weeks, his first to the country after taking charge for the second term in May this year. The Australia PM’s visit to India comes in a year when both sides are marking 5 years of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership established in June 2020. While India-Australia ties have grown in several fields, engagements have increased significantly when it comes to defence, trade, and education.&nbsp;In terms of defence, earlier this month, Indian Defence minister Rajnath Singh visited the country, during which 3 key MoUs were signed on information sharing, submarine rescue, and establishment of joint staff talk. The visit by the Indian side came months after the visit of Australian deputy PM and defence minister Richard Marles to India.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Indian defence minister also witnessed a live air-to-air refuelling capability demonstration on a RAAF KC-30A Multi-Role Tanker, a show of increased “trust” on the security front between the two sides. Both sides are now working to sign a renewed Joint Declaration on Defence and Security Cooperation, an update from the original Declaration from 2009 and a joint Maritime Security Collaboration roadmap that will advance defence cooperation over the next decade.&nbsp;In terms of education, Indian students form one of the largest groups of foreign students in Australia. Increasingly Australian universities are opening or planning to open campuses in India, including the University of Wollongong, the University of Western Australia, Deakin University, and the University of Adelaide. In 2022, both sides signed the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA) that has helped increase trade due to the reduction of tariffs. Total two-way goods and services trade reached approximately US$49.1 billion in 2023, with goods trade hitting US$24.1 billion in FY25 (April 2024–March 2025), reflecting a 14% year-on-year growth in Indian exports.&nbsp;Last year, both PM Modi and PM Albanese met for the 2nd annual summit on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Rio. The summit focused on furthering economic, trade, security, energy, science, and tech ties. Albanese visited India in 2023, and that same year saw PM Modi getting what was seen as a “rockstar” welcome in Sydney. During the diaspora address, PM Albanese called PM Modi “The Boss”.

Last year, PM Modi and PM Albanese met for the 2nd annual summit on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Rio. Albanese visited India in 2023, and the same year saw PM Modi getting a “rockstar” welcome in Sydney. During the diaspora address, PM Albanese called PM Modi “The Boss”.

New Delhi: Plans are in the works for the visit of Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to India in the next few weeks, his first to the country after taking charge for the second term in May this year. The Australia PM’s visit to India comes in a year when both sides are marking 5 years of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership established in June 2020. While India-Australia ties have grown in several fields, engagements have increased significantly when it comes to defence, trade, and education. In terms of defence, earlier this month, Indian Defence minister Rajnath Singh visited the country, during which 3 key MoUs were signed on information sharing, submarine rescue, and establishment of joint staff talk. The visit by the Indian side came months after the visit of Australian deputy PM and defence minister Richard Marles to India. The Indian defence minister also witnessed a live air-to-air refuelling capability demonstration on a RAAF KC-30A Multi-Role Tanker, a show of increased “trust” on the security front between the two sides. Both sides are now working to sign a renewed Joint Declaration on Defence and Security Cooperation, an update from the original Declaration from 2009 and a joint Maritime Security Collaboration roadmap that will advance defence cooperation over the next decade. In terms of education, Indian students form one of the largest groups of foreign students in Australia. Increasingly Australian universities are opening or planning to open campuses in India, including the University of Wollongong, the University of Western Australia, Deakin University, and the University of Adelaide. In 2022, both sides signed the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA) that has helped increase trade due to the reduction of tariffs. Total two-way goods and services trade reached approximately US$49.1 billion in 2023, with goods trade hitting US$24.1 billion in FY25 (April 2024–March 2025), reflecting a 14% year-on-year growth in Indian exports. Last year, both PM Modi and PM Albanese met for the 2nd annual summit on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Rio. The summit focused on furthering economic, trade, security, energy, science, and tech ties. Albanese visited India in 2023, and that same year saw PM Modi getting what was seen as a “rockstar” welcome in Sydney. During the diaspora address, PM Albanese called PM Modi “The Boss”.

Last year, PM Modi and PM Albanese met for the 2nd annual summit on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Rio. Albanese visited India in 2023, and the same year saw PM Modi getting a “rockstar” welcome in Sydney. During the diaspora address, PM Albanese called PM Modi “The Boss”.

Plans in works for India visit of Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese

Heavy clashes erupted between the Afghan and Pakistani security forces on their border late Saturday (Oct 11) as Taliban forces carried out retaliatory attacks after accusing Islamabad of launching strikes on Kabul. The clashes, which are ongoing, were confirmed by Taliban officials from bordering provinces including Kunar, Nangarhar, Paktia, Khost, and Helmand. The conflict comes amid Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi’s visit to India.&nbsp;“In retaliation for the air strikes by Pakistani forces”, Taliban border forces in the east “engaged in heavy clashes against Pakistani forces' posts in various border areas”, the Afghan military said in a statement.&nbsp;A senior Pakistan official from Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province, which borders Afghanistan, told AFP, “This evening, Taliban forces began using weapons. We fired first light and then heavy artillery at four points along the border.”&nbsp;“Pakistani forces responded with heavy fire and shot down three Afghan quadcopters suspected of carrying explosives. Intense fighting continues, but so far, no casualties have been reported,” he added.&nbsp;This comes after two powerful explosions shook central Kabul and another in the southeast of the country on Thursday evening (Oct 9), approximately 48 hours after Pakistan’s big threat to the country. The following day, Afghan defence ministry blamed Pakistan, accusing it of “violating its sovereignty.”&nbsp;In a statement on Friday (Oct 10), Muttaqi said, “There has been an attack near the border in remote areas. We consider this act of Pakistan wrong. Afghanistan has peace and progress after 40 years. The courage of Afghans should not be tested. If someone wants to do this, they should ask the Soviet Union, America, and NATO so that they can explain that it is not good to play games with Afghanistan.”&nbsp;While Islamabad did not confirm being behing the attacks, it told Kabul “to stop harbouring the Pakistani Taliban (TTP) on its soil.”&nbsp;Pakistan has accused TTP, which trained in Afghanistan and share the same ideology as Afghan Taliban, of killing hundreds of its troops since 2021.&nbsp;In recent months, TTP militants have intensified their attacks against Pakistani security forces in the mountainous regions bordering Afghanistan.

This comes after two powerful explosions shook central Kabul on Thursday evening (Oct 9), approximately 48 hours after Pakistan’s big threat to the country. 

Heavy clashes erupted between the Afghan and Pakistani security forces on their border late Saturday (Oct 11) as Taliban forces carried out retaliatory attacks after accusing Islamabad of launching strikes on Kabul. The clashes, which are ongoing, were confirmed by Taliban officials from bordering provinces including Kunar, Nangarhar, Paktia, Khost, and Helmand. The conflict comes amid Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi’s visit to India. “In retaliation for the air strikes by Pakistani forces”, Taliban border forces in the east “engaged in heavy clashes against Pakistani forces' posts in various border areas”, the Afghan military said in a statement. A senior Pakistan official from Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province, which borders Afghanistan, told AFP, “This evening, Taliban forces began using weapons. We fired first light and then heavy artillery at four points along the border.” “Pakistani forces responded with heavy fire and shot down three Afghan quadcopters suspected of carrying explosives. Intense fighting continues, but so far, no casualties have been reported,” he added. This comes after two powerful explosions shook central Kabul and another in the southeast of the country on Thursday evening (Oct 9), approximately 48 hours after Pakistan’s big threat to the country. The following day, Afghan defence ministry blamed Pakistan, accusing it of “violating its sovereignty.” In a statement on Friday (Oct 10), Muttaqi said, “There has been an attack near the border in remote areas. We consider this act of Pakistan wrong. Afghanistan has peace and progress after 40 years. The courage of Afghans should not be tested. If someone wants to do this, they should ask the Soviet Union, America, and NATO so that they can explain that it is not good to play games with Afghanistan.” While Islamabad did not confirm being behing the attacks, it told Kabul “to stop harbouring the Pakistani Taliban (TTP) on its soil.” Pakistan has accused TTP, which trained in Afghanistan and share the same ideology as Afghan Taliban, of killing hundreds of its troops since 2021. In recent months, TTP militants have intensified their attacks against Pakistani security forces in the mountainous regions bordering Afghanistan.

This comes after two powerful explosions shook central Kabul on Thursday evening (Oct 9), approximately 48 hours after Pakistan’s big threat to the country.&nbsp;

‘Heavy clashes’ at Afghanistan-Pakistan border as Taliban forces retaliate days after Pak strikes on Kabul

New Delhi: With a clear message from Washington DC, US Ambassador-designate to India Sergio Gor met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar, NSA Ajit Doval and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri on Saturday. During his meeting with PM Modi, he handed over a picture signed by US President Donald Trump, which said, “Mr Prime Minister, you are great.” In a post on X, the Indian PM expressed confidence that Gor’s tenure “will further strengthen the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership”.&nbsp;Addressing the media in Delhi, Gor said, “The US values its relationship with India and under the strong leadership of President Donald J. Trump and Prime Minister Modi” and that he is “optimistic about the days ahead for both of our nations”. He added that “President Trump considers Prime Minister Modi a great and personal friend.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">An honor to be with PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> this evening. Our relationship with India will only strengthen over the months ahead! 🇺🇸🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/g6AbLEOflf">https://t.co/g6AbLEOflf</a>&mdash; Sergio Gor (@SergioGor) <a href="https://twitter.com/SergioGor/status/1977022533057888452?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 11, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;Gor, who is yet to present his credentials, is on an India visit along with Deputy Secretary for Management and Resources Michael J. Rigas from October 9th to October 14th.Terming his meeting with PM Modi “incredible”, Gor said the key focus of the talks was on bilateral issues, including defence, trade, technology and the “importance of critical minerals to both of our nations.”&nbsp;It is rare for an ambassador-designate to hold such high-profile engagements in Delhi before he presents credentials, but this comes at a time when India and the US are working to conclude a trading arrangement. After Trump imposed 50% tariffs on India in August, ties have seen a downward trend, not to mention the increased US-Pakistan engagement with the US president hosting Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif and Army chief Asim Munir at the White House.&nbsp;Both sides have been engaging with each other with focus on what looks like a re-set in ties. Last week, PM Modi and US President Trump held talks with focus on trade negotiations, Gaza peace plan implementation, which the Indian side has welcomed.The US also dismissed reports of new AMRAAM missile deliveries to Pakistan, clarifying that the contract announced only covers spares and sustainment for existing systems. The clarification came after fake news emerged from Pakistani media that Pakistan would receive new AMRAAMs under the new US contracts.&nbsp;Gor has been recently confirmed as US ambassador to India by the Senate. Addressing the media in Delhi, he said, “It’s an honour to serve as President Donald Trump’s Ambassador to India and I look forward to this very important relationship and continuing to grow and deepen the relationship between our two nations.”&nbsp;He will also serve as Trump’s special envoy for South and Central Asian Affairs.

It is rare for an ambassador-designate to hold such high-profile engagements in Delhi before he presents credentials, but this comes at a time when India and the US are working to conclude a trading arrangement. After Trump imposed 50% tariffs on India in August, ties have seen a slump.

New Delhi: With a clear message from Washington DC, US Ambassador-designate to India Sergio Gor met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar, NSA Ajit Doval and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri on Saturday. During his meeting with PM Modi, he handed over a picture signed by US President Donald Trump, which said, “Mr Prime Minister, you are great.” In a post on X, the Indian PM expressed confidence that Gor’s tenure “will further strengthen the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership”. Addressing the media in Delhi, Gor said, “The US values its relationship with India and under the strong leadership of President Donald J. Trump and Prime Minister Modi” and that he is “optimistic about the days ahead for both of our nations”. He added that “President Trump considers Prime Minister Modi a great and personal friend.”

It is rare for an ambassador-designate to hold such high-profile engagements in Delhi before he presents credentials, but this comes at a time when India and the US are working to conclude a trading arrangement. After Trump imposed 50% tariffs on India in August, ties have seen a slump.

US Ambassador-designate Sergio Gor discusses trade, defence, critical minerals during Delhi meetings

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called on US President Donald Trump to broker a ceasefire in Ukraine, hailing his success in securing a peace deal in the Middle East, during a phone call on Saturday (Oct 11). He added that if a war can be stopped in one region, then other wars can also be stopped, including the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.“I had a call with US President Donald Trump—a very positive and productive one. I congratulated @POTUS on his success and the Middle East deal he was able to secure, which is an outstanding achievement. If a war can be stopped in one region, then surely other wars can be stopped as well—including the Russian war,” Zelensky wrote in a post on X.The Ukrainian leader further said that he informed the US president about Russian attacks on Kyiv’s energy infrastructure. The two leaders also discussed opportunities to bolster our air defence and strengthen agreements, Zelensky said.“I informed President Trump about Russia’s attacks on our energy system—and I appreciate his willingness to support us. We discussed opportunities to bolster our air defense, as well as concrete agreements that we are working on to ensure this. There are good options and solid ideas on how to truly strengthen us,” the Ukrainian president said.Zelensky added that the Russian side needs to be willing to engage in “real diplomacy”, adding that it could be “achieved through strength”.The talks between the two leaders came a day after Russia launched an attack targeting Ukraine’s energy grid, leading to widespread power outages in parts of Kyiv and nine other regions in the country.KyivDiplomatic efforts to end Russia's invasion of Ukraine have slowed in recent months, in part because global attention shifted to Israel's two-year war with militant Palestinian group Hamas, Kyiv says.

The Ukrainian leader further said that he informed the US president about Russian attacks on Kyiv’s energy infrastructure. The two leaders also discussed opportunities to bolster our air defence and strengthen agreements, Zelensky said.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called on US President Donald Trump to broker a ceasefire in Ukraine, hailing his success in securing a peace deal in the Middle East, during a phone call on Saturday (Oct 11). He added that if a war can be stopped in one region, then other wars can also be stopped, including the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. “I had a call with US President Donald Trump—a very positive and productive one. I congratulated @POTUS on his success and the Middle East deal he was able to secure, which is an outstanding achievement. If a war can be stopped in one region, then surely other wars can be stopped as well—including the Russian war,” Zelensky wrote in a post on X. The Ukrainian leader further said that he informed the US president about Russian attacks on Kyiv’s energy infrastructure. The two leaders also discussed opportunities to bolster our air defence and strengthen agreements, Zelensky said. “I informed President Trump about Russia’s attacks on our energy system—and I appreciate his willingness to support us. We discussed opportunities to bolster our air defense, as well as concrete agreements that we are working on to ensure this. There are good options and solid ideas on how to truly strengthen us,” the Ukrainian president said. Zelensky added that the Russian side needs to be willing to engage in “real diplomacy”, adding that it could be “achieved through strength”. The talks between the two leaders came a day after Russia launched an attack targeting Ukraine’s energy grid, leading to widespread power outages in parts of Kyiv and nine other regions in the country. Kyiv Diplomatic efforts to end Russia's invasion of Ukraine have slowed in recent months, in part because global attention shifted to Israel's two-year war with militant Palestinian group Hamas, Kyiv says.

The Ukrainian leader further said that he informed the US president about Russian attacks on Kyiv’s energy infrastructure. The two leaders also discussed opportunities to bolster our air defence and strengthen agreements, Zelensky said.

‘If war can be stopped in one region...’: Zelensky calls on Trump to broker Russia-Ukraine ceasefire after peace in Gaza

A wave of fear and speculation has swept across the community in Houston, Texas. The Texas police recovered 16th dead body from the bayous, five with a gap of five days in September. There is a rumour going on about a serial killer from the grisly pattern, but the law enforcement claims there is no established link. The latest came on October 8.&nbsp;The bodies recovered from the Bayous are in the same stretch of river, which is popular for recreational activity. The age range of the bodies recovered is somewhere between 20s and 60s.&nbsp;“We do not have any evidence that there is a serial killer loose in Houston, Texas,” said Mayor of Houston John Whitmire.However, some others are not so quick to dispel the danger of a serial killer. Retired NYPD Sgt. Kevin Gannon says that this could be the work of the notorious “smiley face killers".&nbsp;"We’ve never seen drowning numbers like this before, especially with a drowning occurring every other day in the same location," said Kevin to Fox News Digital.&nbsp;“This is an aberration and not the normal age of our 700-plus 'potential victims,” he said.The 'smiley face killers' are a notorious but organised gang of killers who target young college-going men and through their bodies in water and mark their area with graffiti. They mostly operate in the Midwest and Northeast near the big towns or college towns near the waterways.&nbsp;However, Houston's Mayor repeatedly denied any possibility of a serial killer, saying that drowning is not unusualin the city's 2,500 miles of bayous. "Unfortunately, the homeless, when they pass, often end up in the bayou," said the Mayor.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">We about to be on Netflix soon. 15 bodies. Samuel Little, one of the most prolific serial killers, killed women in Houston and it wasn’t reported openly. Every serial killer in Houston and around Houston was not acknowledged as a serial killer until after they were arrested.… <a href="https://t.co/VMUBVMAUu0">pic.twitter.com/VMUBVMAUu0</a>&mdash; Tina (@KikaKristina0) <a href="https://twitter.com/KikaKristina0/status/1972005358940950835?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">⚠️ WARNING: This post contains graphic descriptions of the discovery of human remains. Fears of a serial killer are growing in Houston after 16 bodies have been pulled from the city&#39;s bayous since January, but the mayor is insisting there is no evidence the deaths are connected.… <a href="https://t.co/bAumhaZsaW">pic.twitter.com/bAumhaZsaW</a>&mdash; True Crime Updates (@TrueCrimeUpdat) <a href="https://twitter.com/TrueCrimeUpdat/status/1976838547220095101?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 11, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

A criminal justice professor at Penn State Lehigh Valley Retired NYPD Sgt. Joseph Giacalone, says that its not wise to dismiss them as random occurances.&nbsp;"You have 16 bodies, you can't just say everybody's dying and getting thrown into the river and everybody's homeless, you don't even know if they're from your town." he said to Fox News.&nbsp;He urged all of them need autopsy and toxicology reports. The 16 th body recovered was of man making 7th since September.

After 16 bodies were discovered in the same lake, the mayor dismissed online serial killer theories, assuring the public that investigations are ongoing.

A wave of fear and speculation has swept across the community in Houston, Texas. The Texas police recovered 16th dead body from the bayous, five with a gap of five days in September. There is a rumour going on about a serial killer from the grisly pattern, but the law enforcement claims there is no established link. The latest came on October 8. The bodies recovered from the Bayous are in the same stretch of river, which is popular for recreational activity. The age range of the bodies recovered is somewhere between 20s and 60s. “We do not have any evidence that there is a serial killer loose in Houston, Texas,” said Mayor of Houston John Whitmire. However, some others are not so quick to dispel the danger of a serial killer. Retired NYPD Sgt. Kevin Gannon says that this could be the work of the notorious “smiley face killers". "We’ve never seen drowning numbers like this before, especially with a drowning occurring every other day in the same location," said Kevin to Fox News Digital. “This is an aberration and not the normal age of our 700-plus 'potential victims,” he said. The 'smiley face killers' are a notorious but organised gang of killers who target young college-going men and through their bodies in water and mark their area with graffiti. They mostly operate in the Midwest and Northeast near the big towns or college towns near the waterways. However, Houston's Mayor repeatedly denied any possibility of a serial killer, saying that drowning is not unusual in the city's 2,500 miles of bayous. "Unfortunately, the homeless, when they pass, often end up in the bayou," said the Mayor.

After 16 bodies were discovered in the same lake, the mayor confronted the online serial killer theories, assuring the public that investigations are ongoing.

Lake of fear: 16 bodies found in same water, theories of 'smiley face' killer in Texas

As the talks progress and the ceasefire takes effect in Gaza, Hamas said that it would not take part in the formal signing of the Gaza peace deal in Egypt. The Palestinian militant group added that it “acted principally through... Qatari and Egyptian mediators” during the ceasefire talks. A senior Hamas official also stated that it is ready to fight back if Israel resumes war in the territory.&nbsp;“The matter of the official signing – we will not be involved,” Hamas political bureau member Hossam Badran told AFP in an interview on Saturday (Oct 11).&nbsp;&nbsp;“We hope that we will not return to (war), but our Palestinian people and the resistance force will undoubtedly confront and use all their capabilities to repel this aggression if this battle is imposed,” he added.&nbsp;<h2>‘Difficulties’ in Gaza peace talks?</h2>&nbsp;While the first phase of US President Donald Trump’s peace plan in Gaza is being implemented, with the ceasefire in effect now, Badran stated that negotiations over phase two of the deal will be complex and difficult.&nbsp;“The second phase of the Trump plan, as it is clear from the points themselves, contains many complexities and difficulties,” the political bureau member of Hamas said.&nbsp;He further added that it was “absurd” for the Palestinian militant group to leave Gaza after the war ends.&nbsp;“Talk about expelling Palestinians, whether they’re Hamas members or not, from their land is absurd and nonsense,” he said of Trump’s peace plan that also proposes the disarmament of Hamas.&nbsp;<h2>Hamas says disarmament ‘out of the question’</h2>&nbsp;Hamas also said that disarmament as part of Trump’s Gaza plan was “out of the question” and “not negotiable”. A senior official told AFP, “The proposed weapons handover is out of the question and not negotiable.”&nbsp;Meanwhile, US envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are currently in Israel to oversee the ceasefire in Gaza.

A senior Hamas official also stated that it is ready to fight back if Israel resumes war in the territory.

As the talks progress and the ceasefire takes effect in Gaza, Hamas said that it would not take part in the formal signing of the Gaza peace deal in Egypt. The Palestinian militant group added that it “acted principally through... Qatari and Egyptian mediators” during the ceasefire talks. A senior Hamas official also stated that it is ready to fight back if Israel resumes war in the territory. “The matter of the official signing – we will not be involved,” Hamas political bureau member Hossam Badran told AFP in an interview on Saturday (Oct 11). “We hope that we will not return to (war), but our Palestinian people and the resistance force will undoubtedly confront and use all their capabilities to repel this aggression if this battle is imposed,” he added. ‘Difficulties’ in Gaza peace talks? While the first phase of US President Donald Trump’s peace plan in Gaza is being implemented, with the ceasefire in effect now, Badran stated that negotiations over phase two of the deal will be complex and difficult. “The second phase of the Trump plan, as it is clear from the points themselves, contains many complexities and difficulties,” the political bureau member of Hamas said. He further added that it was “absurd” for the Palestinian militant group to leave Gaza after the war ends. “Talk about expelling Palestinians, whether they’re Hamas members or not, from their land is absurd and nonsense,” he said of Trump’s peace plan that also proposes the disarmament of Hamas. Hamas says disarmament ‘out of the question’ Hamas also said that disarmament as part of Trump’s Gaza plan was “out of the question” and “not negotiable”. A senior official told AFP, “The proposed weapons handover is out of the question and not negotiable.” Meanwhile, US envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are currently in Israel to oversee the ceasefire in Gaza.

A senior Hamas official also stated that it is ready to fight back if Israel resumes war in the territory.

‘Will not be involved’: Hamas to skip Gaza peace deal signing? Warns Israel against ‘aggression’

None of the missing workers are believed to have survived the massive explosion at an explosives manufacturing plant in Tennessee, officials said on Saturday, as crews continue to recover remains from the blast site. “At this time, we have recovered no survivors,” Humphreys County Sheriff Chris Davis said during a news briefing. The sheriff did not share how many people were killed in the Friday morning blast, and said, “We’re in the process of the identification of the remains.” “I can tell you that more than 300 people have been through almost every square inch of this facility, and at this time we’ve recovered no survivors,” Davis said at a news briefing.&nbsp;“We can probably make the assumption, and I’m not even going to use the word assumption—I think that we can utilize, well, I have to use that word, forgive me—we can assume that they are deceased at this point.”Davis said the cause of the blast at Accurate Energetic Systems near McEwen is still under investigation, and that he cannot rule out foul play. The blast happened at around 7:45 am Friday morning and “encompassed one whole building,” he added.&nbsp;“That might be days or weeks or months before we can do that,” the Sheriff said.&nbsp;Officials had said on Friday that at least 18 people who were at the plant were unaccounted for. On Saturday, they only said that no survivors had been recovered.&nbsp;<h2>Satellite images show no remains of the facility, only scattered debris</h2>&nbsp;Satellite images show nothing remaining of the facility other than scattered debris. “As we get into this, we find it even more devastating than what we thought initially,” Davis said.&nbsp;&nbsp;A massive blast at an explosives manufacturing plant in Tennessee blew up a building on Friday morning. Videos shared on X showed badly damaged vehicles and charred debris in the area after the devastating explosion. The plant of the company, Accurate Energetic Systems, LLC, is about an hour southwest of Nashville, Tennessee, on the Hickman and Humphreys County line.&nbsp;&nbsp;WATCH: Iran-Israel tensions: Netanyahu claims Iran building ICBMs to hit US cities<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-israel-tensions-netanyahu-claims-iran-building-icbms-to-hit-us-cities-1760202362747/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-israel-tensions-netanyahu-claims-iran-building-icbms-to-hit-us-cities-1760202362747/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Humphreys County Sheriff Chris Davis called the explosion at Accurate Energetic Systems a “very devastating blast” that “encompassed one whole building.”&nbsp;Accurate Energetic Systems, founded in 1980, said its business in McEwen is “dedicated to the development, manufacture, handling, and storage of high-quality energetic products utilised in both defence and commercial markets.”Residents who live near the facility say they felt the impact of the explosion.The company’s Facebook page says it manufactures “various high explosive compositions and specialty products for the US DoD and US industrial markets.”&nbsp;

A massive blast at an explosives manufacturing plant in Tennessee blew up a building on Friday morning. Videos shared on X showed badly damaged vehicles and charred debris in the area after the devastating explosion.

None of the missing workers are believed to have survived the massive explosion at an explosives manufacturing plant in Tennessee, officials said on Saturday, as crews continue to recover remains from the blast site. “At this time, we have recovered no survivors,” Humphreys County Sheriff Chris Davis said during a news briefing. The sheriff did not share how many people were killed in the Friday morning blast, and said, “We’re in the process of the identification of the remains.” “I can tell you that more than 300 people have been through almost every square inch of this facility, and at this time we’ve recovered no survivors,” Davis said at a news briefing. “We can probably make the assumption, and I’m not even going to use the word assumption—I think that we can utilize, well, I have to use that word, forgive me—we can assume that they are deceased at this point.” Davis said the cause of the blast at Accurate Energetic Systems near McEwen is still under investigation, and that he cannot rule out foul play. The blast happened at around 7:45 am Friday morning and “encompassed one whole building,” he added. “That might be days or weeks or months before we can do that,” the Sheriff said. Officials had said on Friday that at least 18 people who were at the plant were unaccounted for. On Saturday, they only said that no survivors had been recovered. Satellite images show no remains of the facility, only scattered debris Satellite images show nothing remaining of the facility other than scattered debris. “As we get into this, we find it even more devastating than what we thought initially,” Davis said. A massive blast at an explosives manufacturing plant in Tennessee blew up a building on Friday morning. Videos shared on X showed badly damaged vehicles and charred debris in the area after the devastating explosion. The plant of the company, Accurate Energetic Systems, LLC, is about an hour southwest of Nashville, Tennessee, on the Hickman and Humphreys County line. WATCH: Iran-Israel tensions: Netanyahu claims Iran building ICBMs to hit US cities https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-israel-tensions-netanyahu-claims-iran-building-icbms-to-hit-us-cities-1760202362747/embed Humphreys County Sheriff Chris Davis called the explosion at Accurate Energetic Systems a “very devastating blast” that “encompassed one whole building.” Accurate Energetic Systems, founded in 1980, said its business in McEwen is “dedicated to the development, manufacture, handling, and storage of high-quality energetic products utilised in both defence and commercial markets.” Residents who live near the facility say they felt the impact of the explosion. The company’s Facebook page says it manufactures “various high explosive compositions and specialty products for the US DoD and US industrial markets.”

A massive blast at an explosives manufacturing plant in Tennessee blew up a building on Friday morning. Videos shared on X showed badly damaged vehicles and charred debris in the area after the devastating explosion.

‘No survivors’ after massive blast at explosives plant in Tennessee, says sheriff

Once a private off-the-record lecture series by the Palantir CEO, billionaire Peter Thiel, has been breached, multiple audio excerpts and notes of attendees circulating online, the leaked sections have very polarising content, including references to the Biblical figure “Antichrist”. He is seemingly recasting a debate around technology and religion, framing its importance in spiritual warfare. The content has been termed by many as extremely polarising.The two-hour lecture “The Antichrist: A Four-Part Lecture Series” was delivered by the billionaire in San Francisco in September- October 2025. Thiel described himself as a 'small-o orthodox Christian'; he argued that critics of unrestrained technology or those who advocate regulation or environmental activism are a modern archetype of Biblical ‘Antichrist’ who undermines progress. He urges to use of technology for a ‘spiritual warfare’.&nbsp;“The antichrist comes to power by talking constantly about Armageddon, about rumours of wars,” said Thiel.“In the 17th, 18th century, the Antichrist would have been a Dr Strangelove, a scientist who did all this sort of evil, crazy science…In the 21st century, the Antichrist is a Luddite who wants to stop all science. It’s someone like Greta or Eliezer,” according to the leaked recording.Several media forensics experts have analysed the audio and concluded that at least part of it is unaltered or authentic. The billionaire went on to comment about several of his interpersonal feuds with other billionaires, like Bill Gates and venture capitalist Marc Andreessen. While speaking fondly about Elon Musk, and the US VP JD Vance.&nbsp;People see the content as grandiose or conspirational and unsettling mixture of theology and technology. This is specifically troubling, because it draws from Biblical archetypes like ‘Armageddon’, ‘Antichrist’ to shape his political and ideological narrative into an existential one. Moreover, the manner of staging these lectures off the record and privately framing them, denying public accountability and scrutiny.People on Reddit have slammed the conspiracy theories and personal vendetta of Thiel: “Extreme wealth is deranging in and of itself, and it usually takes the most sociopathic people to execute the level of backstabbing and underhanded practices to even approach billionaire status.”

Audio from Peter Thiel’s secret “Antichrist” seminar leaks, exposing his apocalyptic views on technology, politics, and the future of civilisation.

Once a private off-the-record lecture series by the Palantir CEO, billionaire Peter Thiel, has been breached, multiple audio excerpts and notes of attendees circulating online, the leaked sections have very polarising content, including references to the Biblical figure “Antichrist”. He is seemingly recasting a debate around technology and religion, framing its importance in spiritual warfare. The content has been termed by many as extremely polarising. The two-hour lecture “The Antichrist: A Four-Part Lecture Series” was delivered by the billionaire in San Francisco in September- October 2025. Thiel described himself as a 'small-o orthodox Christian'; he argued that critics of unrestrained technology or those who advocate regulation or environmental activism are a modern archetype of Biblical ‘Antichrist’ who undermines progress. He urges to use of technology for a ‘spiritual warfare’. “The antichrist comes to power by talking constantly about Armageddon, about rumours of wars,” said Thiel. “In the 17th, 18th century, the Antichrist would have been a Dr Strangelove, a scientist who did all this sort of evil, crazy science…In the 21st century, the Antichrist is a Luddite who wants to stop all science. It’s someone like Greta or Eliezer,” according to the leaked recording. Several media forensics experts have analysed the audio and concluded that at least part of it is unaltered or authentic. The billionaire went on to comment about several of his interpersonal feuds with other billionaires, like Bill Gates and venture capitalist Marc Andreessen. While speaking fondly about Elon Musk, and the US VP JD Vance. People see the content as grandiose or conspirational and unsettling mixture of theology and technology. This is specifically troubling, because it draws from Biblical archetypes like ‘Armageddon’, ‘Antichrist’ to shape his political and ideological narrative into an existential one. Moreover, the manner of staging these lectures off the record and privately framing them, denying public accountability and scrutiny. People on Reddit have slammed the conspiracy theories and personal vendetta of Thiel: “Extreme wealth is deranging in and of itself, and it usually takes the most sociopathic people to execute the level of backstabbing and underhanded practices to even approach billionaire status.”

Audio from Peter Thiel’s secret “Antichrist” seminar leaks, exposing his apocalyptic views on technology, politics, the future of civilisation and prophesying an Armageddon.

Audio from Peter Thiel’s secret “Antichrist” seminar leaks, revealing apocalyptic tech theology

A magnitude-6.0 earthquake jolted just off the coast of the southern Philippines late Saturday, the United States Geological Survey said. The USGS reported that the earthquake occurred at a depth of 59 km, and about 10 km from Cagwait town in the province of Surigao del Sur. There were no immediate reports of casualties due to the earthquake, Cagwait Fire Officer Arnel Besinga told news agency AFP. “The duration of the quake was not that long, just around 30 seconds but it was so sudden and so strong. Our pots here in the fire station fell in our kitchen,” Besinga said.&nbsp;Rescue and fire authorities were conducting a joint assessment of the damage after the quake.&nbsp;“We cannot say the extent of the damage at this point, if there are any, because it’s already night and it’s dark here,” Besinga said.&nbsp;It was not yet clear if the 6.0-magnitude quake in Surigao del Sur was an aftershock of the 6.7- and the 7.4-magnitude tremors that struck off Manay town in Mindanao region on Friday, which killed at least eight people. The first earthquake was massive, with a magnitude of 7.4, setting off landslides and forcing residents in coastal areas to evacuate amid a brief tsunami scare. The second of 6.8 magnitude also prompted local authorities to issue a tsunami warning. The second quake was in the same fault line, the Philippine Trench, at a depth of 37 kilometres (23 miles) off Manay town in Davao Oriental province, said Teresito Bacolcol, chief of the Philippine Institute of Seismology and Volcanology.&nbsp;The series of quakes came days after a magnitude 6.9 earthquake killed 75 people and injured more than 1,200 in Cebu province in central Philippines.&nbsp;Earthquakes are a near-daily occurrence in the Philippines, which is located in the Pacific “Ring of Fire”, an arc of intense seismic activity stretching from Japan through Southeast Asia and across the Pacific basin.

It was not yet clear if the 6.0-magnitude quake in Surigao del Sur was an aftershock of the 6.7- and the 7.4-magnitude tremors that struck off Manay town in Mindanao region on Friday, which killed at least eight people.

A magnitude-6.0 earthquake jolted just off the coast of the southern Philippines late Saturday, the United States Geological Survey said. The USGS reported that the earthquake occurred at a depth of 59 km, and about 10 km from Cagwait town in the province of Surigao del Sur. There were no immediate reports of casualties due to the earthquake, Cagwait Fire Officer Arnel Besinga told news agency AFP. “The duration of the quake was not that long, just around 30 seconds but it was so sudden and so strong. Our pots here in the fire station fell in our kitchen,” Besinga said. Rescue and fire authorities were conducting a joint assessment of the damage after the quake. “We cannot say the extent of the damage at this point, if there are any, because it’s already night and it’s dark here,” Besinga said. It was not yet clear if the 6.0-magnitude quake in Surigao del Sur was an aftershock of the 6.7- and the 7.4-magnitude tremors that struck off Manay town in Mindanao region on Friday, which killed at least eight people. The first earthquake was massive, with a magnitude of 7.4, setting off landslides and forcing residents in coastal areas to evacuate amid a brief tsunami scare. The second of 6.8 magnitude also prompted local authorities to issue a tsunami warning. The second quake was in the same fault line, the Philippine Trench, at a depth of 37 kilometres (23 miles) off Manay town in Davao Oriental province, said Teresito Bacolcol, chief of the Philippine Institute of Seismology and Volcanology. The series of quakes came days after a magnitude 6.9 earthquake killed 75 people and injured more than 1,200 in Cebu province in central Philippines. Earthquakes are a near-daily occurrence in the Philippines, which is located in the Pacific “Ring of Fire”, an arc of intense seismic activity stretching from Japan through Southeast Asia and across the Pacific basin.

It was not yet clear if the 6.0-magnitude quake in Surigao del Sur was an aftershock of the 6.7- and the 7.4-magnitude tremors that struck off Manay town in Mindanao region on Friday, which killed at least eight people.

6.0-magnitude earthquake hits off southern Philippines: USGS

Israel started transferring prisoners to two jails on Saturday ahead of their release as part of the Gaza ceasefire deal, the Israeli prison service said. Under the ceasefire deal, Israel has to release 250 prisoners in exchange for the 48 remaining hostages, both living and dead, held by Hamas. Thousands of security personnel transferred Palestinian security prisoners to other prisons ahead of their release, said a statement issued by the Israel Prison Service. &nbsp;Officers transferred the prisoners, who will be exchanged for hostages held by Hamas and other terror groups in Gaza, to the Ofer prison in the occupied West Bank and to Ketziot prison in southern Israel’s Negev desert, near the border with Egypt, according to the government’s instructions, the prison service said.&nbsp;Thousands of staff “operated throughout the night in order to implement the government’s decision,” the statement added.Under the deal, Israel is supposed to release 250 prisoners, including some serving life sentences for deadly attacks. In exchange, Hamas has until Monday to hand over 48 remaining Israeli hostages—living and dead.&nbsp;Besides, 1,700 more Palestinians detained by the Israeli military in its offensives in Gaza since the deadly October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks will also be released under the arrangement.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-president-joe-biden-starts-undergoing-radiation-therapy-for-aggressive-cancer-1760191355285">Former US president Joe Biden starts undergoing radiation therapy for ‘aggressive’ cancer</a>&nbsp;<h2>Israel changed 100 names in list of prisoners: Hamas</h2>&nbsp;Israel changed 100 names on a list of prisoners Hamas wanted to be released as part of the Gaza ceasefire deal, a source in the terror group told the Ynet news site.Israel “changed the entire list in a sophisticated and cunning way,” alleged the source without specifying which prisoners have been swapped out.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-don-t-test-courage-of-afghans-ask-others-taliban-minister-warns-pakistan-from-india-1760123658539">‘Don’t test courage of Afghans, ask others’: Taliban minister warns Pakistan from India</a><h2>‘More than 500,000 returned to Gaza City since ceasefire’</h2>&nbsp;Gaza’s civil defence agency said on Saturday that more than 500,000 people have returned to Gaza City since a ceasefire took effect. “More than half a million people have returned to Gaza (City) since yesterday,” said Mahmud Bassal, a spokesman for the civil defence, a rescue service operating under Hamas authority.&nbsp;WATCH: US plant explosion: 19 people missing after blast levels Tennessee explosives facility<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-plant-explosion-19-people-missing-after-blast-levels-tennessee-explosives-facility-1760196038612/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-plant-explosion-19-people-missing-after-blast-levels-tennessee-explosives-facility-1760196038612/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Thousands of staff operated throughout the night to implement the government’s decision. Under the deal, Israel has to release 250 prisoners, including some serving life sentences for deadly attacks. In exchange, Hamas has to hand over 48 remaining Israeli hostages—living and dead.

Israel started transferring prisoners to two jails on Saturday ahead of their release as part of the Gaza ceasefire deal, the Israeli prison service said. Under the ceasefire deal, Israel has to release 250 prisoners in exchange for the 48 remaining hostages, both living and dead, held by Hamas. Thousands of security personnel transferred Palestinian security prisoners to other prisons ahead of their release, said a statement issued by the Israel Prison Service. Officers transferred the prisoners, who will be exchanged for hostages held by Hamas and other terror groups in Gaza, to the Ofer prison in the occupied West Bank and to Ketziot prison in southern Israel’s Negev desert, near the border with Egypt, according to the government’s instructions, the prison service said. Thousands of staff “operated throughout the night in order to implement the government’s decision,” the statement added. Under the deal, Israel is supposed to release 250 prisoners, including some serving life sentences for deadly attacks. In exchange, Hamas has until Monday to hand over 48 remaining Israeli hostages—living and dead. Besides, 1,700 more Palestinians detained by the Israeli military in its offensives in Gaza since the deadly October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks will also be released under the arrangement. Also Read: Former US president Joe Biden starts undergoing radiation therapy for ‘aggressive’ cancer Israel changed 100 names in list of prisoners: Hamas Israel changed 100 names on a list of prisoners Hamas wanted to be released as part of the Gaza ceasefire deal, a source in the terror group told the Ynet news site. Israel “changed the entire list in a sophisticated and cunning way,” alleged the source without specifying which prisoners have been swapped out. Also Read: ‘Don’t test courage of Afghans, ask others’: Taliban minister warns Pakistan from India ‘More than 500,000 returned to Gaza City since ceasefire’ Gaza’s civil defence agency said on Saturday that more than 500,000 people have returned to Gaza City since a ceasefire took effect. “More than half a million people have returned to Gaza (City) since yesterday,” said Mahmud Bassal, a spokesman for the civil defence, a rescue service operating under Hamas authority. WATCH: US plant explosion: 19 people missing after blast levels Tennessee explosives facility https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-plant-explosion-19-people-missing-after-blast-levels-tennessee-explosives-facility-1760196038612/embed

Thousands of staff operated throughout the night to implement the government’s decision. Under the deal, Israel has to release 250 prisoners, including some serving life sentences for deadly attacks. In exchange, Hamas has to hand over 48 remaining Israeli hostages—living and dead.

Israel moves Palestinian prisoners ahead of their release under Gaza ceasefire deal

At least four people were killed and 12 others were injured in a shooting early Saturday (Oct 11) in Leland, Mississippi, officials said. According to reports, the incident happened at a downtown event taking place during Leland High School homecoming weekend. Four of the injured people were airlifted to local hospitals. There was no immediate information about the condition of the victims, while reports claimed that four of the injured were critical.&nbsp;The shooting happened during a gathering after Leland High School’s homecoming football game, around midnight on the main street in Leland. No one has been arrested in connection with the shooting as of now, and an investigation is underway. The Mississippi Bureau of Investigation said that it was assisting in the investigation, but deferred to Leland police for further details on the incident. Manhunt for the suspect involved in the shooting is ongoing.&nbsp;Leland Mayor John Lee told CNN that the shooting did not on the campus of the high school, without giving further details about the incident.&nbsp;The small town of Leland is about 120 miles (190 km) north-east of Jackson and has a population of about 4,000 residents. The city was busier than usual on the night of the incident due to a football game to mark homecoming, an annual tradition in the US that is held usually in autumn.&nbsp;Speaking to BBC, Lee said, “This is an event where we have held yearly for years and hadn't had any incidents of this sort, ever.”&nbsp;“And we’re a city that, not high crime and about 3,700 people. We all get along, and everybody knows everybody. So this is definitely a tragedy to us,” he added.&nbsp;(This is a developing story.)&nbsp;

The incident happened at a downtown event taking place during Leland High School homecoming weekend.

At least four people were killed and 12 others were injured in a shooting early Saturday (Oct 11) in Leland, Mississippi, officials said. According to reports, the incident happened at a downtown event taking place during Leland High School homecoming weekend. Four of the injured people were airlifted to local hospitals. There was no immediate information about the condition of the victims, while reports claimed that four of the injured were critical. The shooting happened during a gathering after Leland High School’s homecoming football game, around midnight on the main street in Leland. No one has been arrested in connection with the shooting as of now, and an investigation is underway. The Mississippi Bureau of Investigation said that it was assisting in the investigation, but deferred to Leland police for further details on the incident. Manhunt for the suspect involved in the shooting is ongoing. Leland Mayor John Lee told CNN that the shooting did not on the campus of the high school, without giving further details about the incident. The small town of Leland is about 120 miles (190 km) north-east of Jackson and has a population of about 4,000 residents. The city was busier than usual on the night of the incident due to a football game to mark homecoming, an annual tradition in the US that is held usually in autumn. Speaking to BBC, Lee said, “This is an event where we have held yearly for years and hadn't had any incidents of this sort, ever.” “And we’re a city that, not high crime and about 3,700 people. We all get along, and everybody knows everybody. So this is definitely a tragedy to us,” he added. (This is a developing story.)

The incident happened at a downtown event taking place during Leland High School homecoming weekend.

Mississippi shooting: 4 killed 12 injured during Leland homecoming celebrations

October 10, 2025, María Corina Machado won the Nobel Peace Prize for ‘promoting democratic rights’. The Nobel committee congratulated her and praised her "tireless work" for democracy in Venezuela. Ironically, on April 11, 2002, Machado signed away democratic institutions in an attempt to overthrow a democratically elected government, and twenty-three years later, she is the flagbearer of Western democracy.&nbsp;<h2>The 2002 failed coup d'état and the Carmona Decree</h2>Hugo Chavez, then President of Venezuela, who was elected with 56 per cent of the vote, was removed from power to install a Business leader, Pedro Carmona. He passed a document called the Carmona Decree, which dissolved all branches of government institutions and invalidated the 1999 constitution. Machado was present during the brief coup at Miraflores presidential palace; she was also one of the signatories of the Carmona Decree that abolished all government institutions. While Chavez was not the most democratic leader, he was also not an elitist. He passed agrarian reforms to redistribute land and wealth, and his new petroleum policy imposed additional duties on foreign oil companies. The 2001 Hydrocarbon Law, which increased the royalty rate for foreign companies from 16 per cent to 30 per cent and mandated a 51 per cent government stake in any new oil ventures, was the primary problem for many foreign companies like US-based Chevron, ExxonMobil, and ConocoPhillips. While they were not directly involved in stirring up a coup, they were aligned with the opposition. The Carmona decree reversed all the social and economic reforms of Chávez, especially the nationalisation of the Oil sector. Several reports, including investigative reports from the Centre for Economic and Policy Research, investigative journalist Eva Golinger, and The New York Times, indicated that the National Endowment for Democracy (NED) increased its funding for Venezuela, providing large funding for groups that were opposing Chavez. CIA declassified documents show that the Bush administration was aware of the coup plot weeks in advance. But the coup lasted for less than 47 hours, and Chavez restored power. As Chavez was being held captive, mass popular protests by his supporters broke out across the streets of Caracas, and the military forces, which remained loyal to him, staged a counter-coup, took over the Presidential palace and restored Chavez to power. Pedro Carmona fled to Colombia.<h2>Post-coup Machado: The Sumate and the NED</h2>Machado was not leading the coup but was part of it, so she was charged with treason, but she remained in Venezuela. The coup, even though it failed, can not be dismissed as youthful idealism; she was in her mid-30s, and it was the beginning of her political career. She cofounded Sumate (Join-Up) and positioned it as an election monitoring organisation just three months before the coup. It was organising opposition against Chavez. Right after the failed coup, the NED awarded $1,000,000 to Venezuelan benefactors. After 2003, it was receiving regular funding from the NED. The US-funded civil society started operating with the objective of removing Chavez. In 2004, Sumate organised a recall referendum against Chavez, but Chavez won the referendum, started to investigate Sumate and the NED money trail. Machado and other Sumate leaders were charged with treason and conspiracy. This was the second treason charge, but she was not imprisoned; her defence created a ridiculous argument for the 2002 coup charges. She claimed that she was falsely instructed to sign the Carmona Decree, whose true intentions were unknown to her. Both the treason charges were annulled in February 2006. Why the second treason charge was annulled still is not openly documented; many argue that it was because of the international pressure, the prosecution had a lack of evidence to frame her (Venezuela was yet to descend into complete authoritarianism) and imprisoning her would turn her into a martyr and promote the narrative of a political prisoner, the treason charges itself made her an icon. But it never resulted in imprisonment.<h2>From Chavez to Maduro, opportunity in crisis</h2>Machado was elected to the National Assembly in 2006, and she maintained her opposition to the Chavez government. Chávez was re-elected in 2006 with a wide margin, and again in 2012. There were accusations of Media control, some amount of sledging at polling booths, unusual access to public funding and irregularities with the electoral roll. However international observer noted that the results reflected the overall sentiment. In 2013, Chavez died, and Maduro succeeded him in a contested election. The economic crisis started to deepen as the world oil market collapsed in 2014. Machado was expelled from the National Assembly and became a symbol of government repression, attracting major international attention. Venezuela went into recession due to over-reliance on oil revenue and massive welfare spending without attracting foreign investment and without diversifying the economy. The United States under Obama started to impose sanctions on the Venezuelan government officials in 2015, but not targeted at oil companies or trade relations. In 2017, Trump went on a full-scale trade war, and the situation worsened. He prohibited the trading of Venezuelan bonds in US markets, prohibited the use of Venezuelan digital currency. There was a complete embargo against the Venezuelan government.Now follows another coup attempt of 2019. On January 23, 2019, Juan Guaidó, head of Venezuela's opposition-controlled National Assembly, declared himself ‘interim president.’ Within minutes, Trump recognised him, and about 50 more countries did the same. Machado, even though she supported him at first, later distanced herself from him, questioning his strategies. However, the coup failed, and the repeated attempt in 2020 also failed. These attempts set a precedent; no electoral victory was needed; all that mattered was Western recognition for a government. Guaido was too young and obviously a US creation; the movement fizzled out in 2022-23. But the pattern could be repeated, create another opposition leader, fund him and what is required is international legitimacy. Machado steps forward as a meaningful alternative. She won the 2023 opposition primary and raised her profile dramatically, but in 2024, she was barred from participating in the election for 15 years. The Court stated that it was for her support of US sanctions on Venezuela and Maduro, and for being &nbsp;‘involved... in the corruption plot orchestrated by the usurper Juan Guaido’ which had led to a "criminal blockade of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, as well as the shameless dispossession of the companies and wealth of the Venezuelan". This turned her into an international icon and flag bearer of democracy. In the 2024 election, she fiercely rallied around candidate Edmundo Gonzalez, operating under precarious conditions. But Maduro claimed himself the winner, and the opposition claimed that they had documents to show otherwise. In 2025, the Venezuelan government intercepted her convoy when she was out on a rally in Caracas; she was forced off the road and went into hiding, becoming Venezuela's most famous fugitive.&nbsp;<h2>The Nobel Prize chose Venezuela over Gaza</h2>The Norwegian Nobel Committee awarded Machado the peace prize on October 11. Even though this is not as disturbing as that of Henry Kissinger and Aung San Suu Kyi. But this blatantly appears like a legitimisation project for a regime change in Venezuela. Venezuela has the world's largest oil reserves, and the West is unable to access them. The committee did mention her struggle against an authoritarian regime. But it did not mention her open support of sanctions on Venezuela, which is pushing the country into further economic crisis, it did not mention her signing away of all democratic institutions or her economic platform explicitly modelled on Pinochet and Thatcher and no mention of the public support of the Gaza warcrime. This is particularly alarming because she was chosen over a UN agency providing humanitarian aid, along with Palestinian journalists, many of whom have died in Israeli war crimes. On winning, she dedicated it to Trump; the journey is complete from the Carmona Decree to the MAGA movement.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

María Corina Machado wins the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize for democracy in Venezuela despite her ties to the 2002 coup and support for U.S. sanctions. The Nobel Committee picked someone who supports war crimes over those who are fighting against them.

October 10, 2025, María Corina Machado won the Nobel Peace Prize for ‘promoting democratic rights’. The Nobel committee congratulated her and praised her "tireless work" for democracy in Venezuela. Ironically, on April 11, 2002, Machado signed away democratic institutions in an attempt to overthrow a democratically elected government, and twenty-three years later, she is the flagbearer of Western democracy. The 2002 failed coup d'état and the Carmona Decree Hugo Chavez, then President of Venezuela, who was elected with 56 per cent of the vote, was removed from power to install a Business leader, Pedro Carmona. He passed a document called the Carmona Decree, which dissolved all branches of government institutions and invalidated the 1999 constitution. Machado was present during the brief coup at Miraflores presidential palace; she was also one of the signatories of the Carmona Decree that abolished all government institutions. While Chavez was not the most democratic leader, he was also not an elitist. He passed agrarian reforms to redistribute land and wealth, and his new petroleum policy imposed additional duties on foreign oil companies. The 2001 Hydrocarbon Law, which increased the royalty rate for foreign companies from 16 per cent to 30 per cent and mandated a 51 per cent government stake in any new oil ventures, was the primary problem for many foreign companies like US-based Chevron, ExxonMobil, and ConocoPhillips. While they were not directly involved in stirring up a coup, they were aligned with the opposition. The Carmona decree reversed all the social and economic reforms of Chávez, especially the nationalisation of the Oil sector. Several reports, including investigative reports from the Centre for Economic and Policy Research, investigative journalist Eva Golinger, and The New York Times, indicated that the National Endowment for Democracy (NED) increased its funding for Venezuela, providing large funding for groups that were opposing Chavez. CIA declassified documents show that the Bush administration was aware of the coup plot weeks in advance. But the coup lasted for less than 47 hours, and Chavez restored power. As Chavez was being held captive, mass popular protests by his supporters broke out across the streets of Caracas, and the military forces, which remained loyal to him, staged a counter-coup, took over the Presidential palace and restored Chavez to power. Pedro Carmona fled to Colombia. Post-coup Machado: The Sumate and the NED Machado was not leading the coup but was part of it, so she was charged with treason, but she remained in Venezuela. The coup, even though it failed, can not be dismissed as youthful idealism; she was in her mid-30s, and it was the beginning of her political career. She cofounded Sumate (Join-Up) and positioned it as an election monitoring organisation just three months before the coup. It was organising opposition against Chavez. Right after the failed coup, the NED awarded $1,000,000 to Venezuelan benefactors. After 2003, it was receiving regular funding from the NED. The US-funded civil society started operating with the objective of removing Chavez. In 2004, Sumate organised a recall referendum against Chavez, but Chavez won the referendum, started to investigate Sumate and the NED money trail. Machado and other Sumate leaders were charged with treason and conspiracy. This was the second treason charge, but she was not imprisoned; her defence created a ridiculous argument for the 2002 coup charges. She claimed that she was falsely instructed to sign the Carmona Decree, whose true intentions were unknown to her. Both the treason charges were annulled in February 2006. Why the second treason charge was annulled still is not openly documented; many argue that it was because of the international pressure, the prosecution had a lack of evidence to frame her (Venezuela was yet to descend into complete authoritarianism) and imprisoning her would turn her into a martyr and promote the narrative of a political prisoner, the treason charges itself made her an icon. But it never resulted in imprisonment. From Chavez to Maduro, opportunity in crisis Machado was elected to the National Assembly in 2006, and she maintained her opposition to the Chavez government. Chávez was re-elected in 2006 with a wide margin, and again in 2012. There were accusations of Media control, some amount of sledging at polling booths, unusual access to public funding and irregularities with the electoral roll. However international observer noted that the results reflected the overall sentiment. In 2013, Chavez died, and Maduro succeeded him in a contested election. The economic crisis started to deepen as the world oil market collapsed in 2014. Machado was expelled from the National Assembly and became a symbol of government repression, attracting major international attention. Venezuela went into recession due to over-reliance on oil revenue and massive welfare spending without attracting foreign investment and without diversifying the economy. The United States under Obama started to impose sanctions on the Venezuelan government officials in 2015, but not targeted at oil companies or trade relations. In 2017, Trump went on a full-scale trade war, and the situation worsened. He prohibited the trading of Venezuelan bonds in US markets, prohibited the use of Venezuelan digital currency. There was a complete embargo against the Venezuelan government. Now follows another coup attempt of 2019. On January 23, 2019, Juan Guaidó, head of Venezuela's opposition-controlled National Assembly, declared himself ‘interim president.’ Within minutes, Trump recognised him, and about 50 more countries did the same. Machado, even though she supported him at first, later distanced herself from him, questioning his strategies. However, the coup failed, and the repeated attempt in 2020 also failed. These attempts set a precedent; no electoral victory was needed; all that mattered was Western recognition for a government. Guaido was too young and obviously a US creation; the movement fizzled out in 2022-23. But the pattern could be repeated, create another opposition leader, fund him and what is required is international legitimacy. Machado steps forward as a meaningful alternative. She won the 2023 opposition primary and raised her profile dramatically, but in 2024, she was barred from participating in the election for 15 years. The Court stated that it was for her support of US sanctions on Venezuela and Maduro, and for being ‘involved... in the corruption plot orchestrated by the usurper Juan Guaido’ which had led to a "criminal blockade of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, as well as the shameless dispossession of the companies and wealth of the Venezuelan". This turned her into an international icon and flag bearer of democracy. In the 2024 election, she fiercely rallied around candidate Edmundo Gonzalez, operating under precarious conditions. But Maduro claimed himself the winner, and the opposition claimed that they had documents to show otherwise. In 2025, the Venezuelan government intercepted her convoy when she was out on a rally in Caracas; she was forced off the road and went into hiding, becoming Venezuela's most famous fugitive. The Nobel Prize chose Venezuela over Gaza The Norwegian Nobel Committee awarded Machado the peace prize on October 11. Even though this is not as disturbing as that of Henry Kissinger and Aung San Suu Kyi. But this blatantly appears like a legitimisation project for a regime change in Venezuela. Venezuela has the world's largest oil reserves, and the West is unable to access them. The committee did mention her struggle against an authoritarian regime. But it did not mention her open support of sanctions on Venezuela, which is pushing the country into further economic crisis, it did not mention her signing away of all democratic institutions or her economic platform explicitly modelled on Pinochet and Thatcher and no mention of the public support of the Gaza warcrime. This is particularly alarming because she was chosen over a UN agency providing humanitarian aid, along with Palestinian journalists, many of whom have died in Israeli war crimes. On winning, she dedicated it to Trump; the journey is complete from the Carmona Decree to the MAGA movement.

María Corina Machado wins the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize for democracy in Venezuela despite her ties to the 2002 coup and support for U.S. sanctions. The Nobel Committee picked someone who supports war crimes over those who are fighting against them.

Twenty-three years, failed coup, treason charges, one Nobel Prize: The making of María Corina Machado

Hamas’s disarmament as part of US President Donald Trump’s peace plan is “out of the question” and “not negotiable,” a Hamas official said. The statement comes as the ceasefire takes effect in Gaza after the Palestinian militant group and Israel signed the first phase of Trump’s plan, which includes hostage and prisoner exchange and withdrawal of Israeli troops from the war-torn territory.&nbsp;“The proposed weapons handover is out of the question and not negotiable,” the official told AFP.&nbsp;The US president has indicated that the issue of Hamas surrendering its weapons would be addressed in the second phase of the peace plan.&nbsp;Meanwhile, in an interview with AFP, Hamas political bureau member Hossam Badran said that the Palestinian militant group would not take part in the formal signing of the Gaza peace deal in Egypt. He added that it “acted principally through... Qatari and Egyptian mediators” during the ceasefire talks.&nbsp;“The matter of the official signing – we will not be involved,” Hamas political bureau member Hossam Badran told AFP in an interview on Saturday (Oct 11).&nbsp;“We hope that we will not return to (war), but our Palestinian people and the resistance force will undoubtedly confront and use all their capabilities to repel this aggression if this battle is imposed,” he added.&nbsp;While the first phase of US President Donald Trump’s peace plan in Gaza is being implemented, with the ceasefire in effect now, Badran stated that negotiations over phase two of the deal will be “complex and difficult.” He further added that it was “absurd” for the Palestinian militant group to leave Gaza after the war ends.&nbsp;

The US president has indicated that the issue of Hamas surrendering its weapons would be addressed in the second phase of the peace plan.

Hamas’s disarmament as part of US President Donald Trump’s peace plan is “out of the question” and “not negotiable,” a Hamas official said. The statement comes as the ceasefire takes effect in Gaza after the Palestinian militant group and Israel signed the first phase of Trump’s plan, which includes hostage and prisoner exchange and withdrawal of Israeli troops from the war-torn territory. “The proposed weapons handover is out of the question and not negotiable,” the official told AFP. The US president has indicated that the issue of Hamas surrendering its weapons would be addressed in the second phase of the peace plan. Meanwhile, in an interview with AFP, Hamas political bureau member Hossam Badran said that the Palestinian militant group would not take part in the formal signing of the Gaza peace deal in Egypt. He added that it “acted principally through... Qatari and Egyptian mediators” during the ceasefire talks. “The matter of the official signing – we will not be involved,” Hamas political bureau member Hossam Badran told AFP in an interview on Saturday (Oct 11). “We hope that we will not return to (war), but our Palestinian people and the resistance force will undoubtedly confront and use all their capabilities to repel this aggression if this battle is imposed,” he added. While the first phase of US President Donald Trump’s peace plan in Gaza is being implemented, with the ceasefire in effect now, Badran stated that negotiations over phase two of the deal will be “complex and difficult.” He further added that it was “absurd” for the Palestinian militant group to leave Gaza after the war ends.

The US president has indicated that the issue of Hamas surrendering its weapons would be addressed in the second phase of the peace plan.

‘Weapons handover out of question’: Hamas official says disarmament ‘not negotiable’ despite ceasefire in Gaza

Former US president Joe Biden has started undergoing a new phase of treatment for an aggressive form of cancer that was diagnosed in May, a spokesperson said Saturday. “As part of a treatment plan for prostate cancer, President Biden is currently undergoing radiation therapy and hormone treatment,” said an NBC report, citing a spokesperson for the former president.The radiation treatment is expected to span five weeks and marks a new point in his care, the spokesperson said. Biden has already been taking a pill form of hormone medication.&nbsp;Last month, the former president also underwent a skin cancer treatment known as Mohs surgery, and a large bandage on his forehead was visible in public appearances in the following days.&nbsp;&nbsp;Mohs surgery is a procedure in which skin is cut away until no evidence of cancer remains.&nbsp;&nbsp;In 2023, Biden had a cancerous skin lesion removed from his chest during a health screening.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-don-t-test-courage-of-afghans-ask-others-taliban-minister-warns-pakistan-from-india-1760123658539">‘Don’t test courage of Afghans, ask others’: Taliban minister warns Pakistan from India</a>&nbsp;The former president announced in May that he had been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that had already metastasized to his bones. His office said at the time that he was pursuing several treatment options to ensure “effective management” of the illness.&nbsp;WATCH: India: 2nd year medical college student gang-raped in West Bengal's Durgapur<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-2nd-year-medical-college-student-gang-raped-in-west-bengal-s-durgapur-1760190649783/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-2nd-year-medical-college-student-gang-raped-in-west-bengal-s-durgapur-1760190649783/embed</a>&nbsp;<h2>‘We are strongest in the broken places’</h2>&nbsp;“Cancer touches us all,” Biden wrote on social media at the time. “Like so many of you, Jill and I have learned that we are strongest in the broken places.”&nbsp;Biden also had several non-melanoma skin cancers removed before he became president.The former president, who turns 83 next month, is said to be “doing well”. Biden has largely retreated from the public eye since leaving the White House in January.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blast-at-tennessee-explosives-plant-leaves-many-dead-several-unaccounted-for-1760117464979">Massive blast at Tennessee explosives plant leaves many dead, several ‘unaccounted for’</a>&nbsp;The Bidens have been strong advocates for fighting and curing cancer since their adult son, Beau, died from brain cancer in 2015.

Biden announced in May that he had been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that had already metastasized to his bones. His office said at the time that he was pursuing several treatment options to ensure “effective management” of the illness.

Former US president Joe Biden has started undergoing a new phase of treatment for an aggressive form of cancer that was diagnosed in May, a spokesperson said Saturday. “As part of a treatment plan for prostate cancer, President Biden is currently undergoing radiation therapy and hormone treatment,” said an NBC report, citing a spokesperson for the former president. The radiation treatment is expected to span five weeks and marks a new point in his care, the spokesperson said. Biden has already been taking a pill form of hormone medication. Last month, the former president also underwent a skin cancer treatment known as Mohs surgery, and a large bandage on his forehead was visible in public appearances in the following days. Mohs surgery is a procedure in which skin is cut away until no evidence of cancer remains. In 2023, Biden had a cancerous skin lesion removed from his chest during a health screening. Also Read: ‘Don’t test courage of Afghans, ask others’: Taliban minister warns Pakistan from India The former president announced in May that he had been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that had already metastasized to his bones. His office said at the time that he was pursuing several treatment options to ensure “effective management” of the illness. WATCH: India: 2nd year medical college student gang-raped in West Bengal's Durgapur https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-2nd-year-medical-college-student-gang-raped-in-west-bengal-s-durgapur-1760190649783/embed ‘We are strongest in the broken places’ “Cancer touches us all,” Biden wrote on social media at the time. “Like so many of you, Jill and I have learned that we are strongest in the broken places.” Biden also had several non-melanoma skin cancers removed before he became president. The former president, who turns 83 next month, is said to be “doing well”. Biden has largely retreated from the public eye since leaving the White House in January. Also Read: Massive blast at Tennessee explosives plant leaves many dead, several ‘unaccounted for’ The Bidens have been strong advocates for fighting and curing cancer since their adult son, Beau, died from brain cancer in 2015.

Biden announced in May that he had been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that had already metastasized to his bones. His office said at the time that he was pursuing several treatment options to ensure “effective management” of the illness.

Former US president Joe Biden starts undergoing radiation therapy for ‘aggressive’ cancer

US military personnel began arriving in Israel on Saturday (Oct 11) to establish a coordination centre that will oversee the implementation of the ceasefire in Gaza. The head of the US Central Command (CENTCOM) said in a statement that he visited the war-torn territory to discuss post-conflict stabilisation and clarified that no US troops will be deployed to Gaza. Earlier this week, senior US officials said that about 200 troops would be deployed to operate a “civil-military coordination center” under US Central Command. The team will aid in facilitating humanitarian aid and provide logistical and security support in the territory, according to reports.“Just returned from a visit inside Gaza to inform how we are moving forward to establish a CENTCOM-led Civil-Military Coordination Center (CMCC) that will synchronize activities to support post-conflict stabilization. America's sons and daughters in uniform are answering the call to deliver peace in the Middle East in support of the Commander in Chief’s direction in this historic moment. This great effort will be achieved with no U.S. boots on the ground in Gaza,” CENTCOM Commander Adm. Brad Cooper said in a statement on X.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Statement from Adm. Brad Cooper, CENTCOM commander: <a href="https://t.co/1TeByRzPoF">pic.twitter.com/1TeByRzPoF</a>&mdash; U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) <a href="https://twitter.com/CENTCOM/status/1976982921430155740?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 11, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The US military will coordinate with a multinational taskforce that will comprise troops from Egypt, Qatar, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates. The team will be deployed in Gaza to oversee post-war stabilisation.Fox News reported that US special envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff and CENTCOM chief Adm. Brad Cooper visited an Israeli army post in the Gaza Strip on Saturday to confirm that Israel Defense Forces (IDF) pulled out from the territory, where a ceasefire has been implemented after two years of conflict.This comes after the Israeli cabinet approved the deal early Friday (Oct 10) morning, roughly 24 hours after mediators announced the first phase of Donald Trump’s peace agreement. While the first phase of Trump’s 20-point plan has been approved and sparked celebrations in both Gaza and Tel Aviv, several critical issues remain unresolved regarding the long-term future of the Gaza Strip.

The US military will coordinate with a multinational taskforce that will comprise troops from Egypt, Qatar, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates. The team will be deployed in Gaza to oversee post-war stabilisation.

US military personnel began arriving in Israel on Saturday (Oct 11) to establish a coordination centre that will oversee the implementation of the ceasefire in Gaza. The head of the US Central Command (CENTCOM) said in a statement that he visited the war-torn territory to discuss post-conflict stabilisation and clarified that no US troops will be deployed to Gaza. Earlier this week, senior US officials said that about 200 troops would be deployed to operate a “civil-military coordination center” under US Central Command. The team will aid in facilitating humanitarian aid and provide logistical and security support in the territory, according to reports. “Just returned from a visit inside Gaza to inform how we are moving forward to establish a CENTCOM-led Civil-Military Coordination Center (CMCC) that will synchronize activities to support post-conflict stabilization. America's sons and daughters in uniform are answering the call to deliver peace in the Middle East in support of the Commander in Chief’s direction in this historic moment. This great effort will be achieved with no U.S. boots on the ground in Gaza,” CENTCOM Commander Adm. Brad Cooper said in a statement on X.

The US military will coordinate with a multinational taskforce that will comprise troops from Egypt, Qatar, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates. The team will be deployed in Gaza to oversee post-war stabilisation.

‘No US boots on ground in Gaza’: CENTCOM chief confirms as troops arrive in Israel

Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi on Saturday (Oct 11) visited the Islamic seminary Darul Uloom Deoband in Uttar Pradesh’s Saharanpur during his six-day visit to India. While addressing reporters after his trip, Muttaqi expressed hopes for stronger ties between India and Afghanistan in future. The Afghan leader met with senior clerics, scholars and administrators of the institution.“The journey has been very good so far. Not just the people of Darul Uloom, but all the people of the area have come here. I am grateful to them for the warm welcome they extended to me... I am thankful to the Ulema of Deoband and the people of the area for this warm welcome... The future of India-Afghanistan relations seems very bright,” Muttaqi said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh | Afghan FM Amir Khan Muttaqi says, &quot;The journey has been very good so far. Not just the people of Darul Uloom, but all people of the area have come here. I am grateful to them for the warm welcome they extended to me... I am thankful to the… <a href="https://t.co/TQ7dUwRqPU">pic.twitter.com/TQ7dUwRqPU</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1976912373278802025?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 11, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Muttaqi’s six-day visit to India highlights the strengthening diplomatic relations between India and Afghanistan. During his visit, the Taliban minister aims to bolster ties between New Delhi and Kabul and hold discussions on strategic interests, including regional stability and security and on regional dynamics, including Pakistan’s role in the region and its impact on India-Afghanistan relations.The Afghan FM is also set to visit the Taj Mahal in Agra on Sunday. A day earlier, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held talks with the Afghan foreign minister and discussed a wide range of issues of mutual interest and regional developments.“External Affairs Minister reiterated India’s long-standing friendship with the Afghan people and highlighted the deep-rooted cultural and historical ties binding the two nations. He conveyed India's continued commitment to support the aspirations and developmental needs of the Afghan people,” the leaders said in a joint statement.The Afghan FM also condemned the deadly terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam on April 22 that killed 26 and expressed solidarity with the people and the government of India. &nbsp;

Muttaqi expressed hopes for stronger ties between India and Afghanistan in future. The Afghan leader met with senior clerics, scholars and administrators of the institution.

Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi on Saturday (Oct 11) visited the Islamic seminary Darul Uloom Deoband in Uttar Pradesh’s Saharanpur during his six-day visit to India. While addressing reporters after his trip, Muttaqi expressed hopes for stronger ties between India and Afghanistan in future. The Afghan leader met with senior clerics, scholars and administrators of the institution. “The journey has been very good so far. Not just the people of Darul Uloom, but all the people of the area have come here. I am grateful to them for the warm welcome they extended to me... I am thankful to the Ulema of Deoband and the people of the area for this warm welcome... The future of India-Afghanistan relations seems very bright,” Muttaqi said.

Muttaqi expressed hopes for stronger ties between India and Afghanistan in future. The Afghan leader met with senior clerics, scholars and administrators of the institution.

‘Future of India-Afghanistan ties very bright’: Afghan FM Muttaqi visits Darul Uloom Deoband

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr raked up a controversy Thursday (Oct 9) after he reasserted a link between autism and circumcision. According to some theory, Tylenol, a pain reliver causes the disorder. He also claimed that people are opposing the theory are motivated by hatred for President Donald Trump, at a meeting of the Cabinet.&nbsp;"There's two studies that show children who are circumcised early have double the rate of autism. It's highly likely because they are given Tylenol," said Kennedy during the meeting.&nbsp;However, medical experts are pushing back against the claims. &nbsp;&nbsp;Circumcision is a surgical procedure that removes the foreskin from a boy's penis. It is also a part of cultural, religious practices largely prevalent in the Muslim community.&nbsp;According to a 2025 study from Johns Hopkins Medicine the practice of Circumcision had decreased from 54.1% to 49.3% - a drop of nearly 5% - &nbsp;from 2012 to 2022.<h2>What study was Kennedy referring to</h2>&nbsp;While making the statement, Kennedy did not cite any study but experts say he was actually trying to point to a 2015 study published in the Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine which looked at ritual circumcision and the risk of autism spectrum disorder in boys under the age of 10 in Denmark.&nbsp;It found that those who had undergone the procedure, had high chances of developing autism than other boys in the study. &nbsp;However, Researchers noted that they had no data on painkillers or anesthetics used, and thus couldn’t be very sure whether the use of the painkiller Tylenol was linked to autism.&nbsp;While another study conducted in 2013, which could have also been a referral point of Kennedy, said that there could be correlation, not causation, and that their study may have mistakes and biases.&nbsp;

While making the statement, Kennedy did not cite any study but experts say he was actually trying to point to a 2015 study published in the Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine which looked at ritual circumcision.

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr raked up a controversy Thursday (Oct 9) after he reasserted a link between autism and circumcision. According to some theory, Tylenol, a pain reliver causes the disorder. He also claimed that people are opposing the theory are motivated by hatred for President Donald Trump, at a meeting of the Cabinet. "There's two studies that show children who are circumcised early have double the rate of autism. It's highly likely because they are given Tylenol," said Kennedy during the meeting. However, medical experts are pushing back against the claims. Circumcision is a surgical procedure that removes the foreskin from a boy's penis. It is also a part of cultural, religious practices largely prevalent in the Muslim community. According to a 2025 study from Johns Hopkins Medicine the practice of Circumcision had decreased from 54.1% to 49.3% - a drop of nearly 5% - from 2012 to 2022. What study was Kennedy referring to While making the statement, Kennedy did not cite any study but experts say he was actually trying to point to a 2015 study published in the Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine which looked at ritual circumcision and the risk of autism spectrum disorder in boys under the age of 10 in Denmark. It found that those who had undergone the procedure, had high chances of developing autism than other boys in the study. However, Researchers noted that they had no data on painkillers or anesthetics used, and thus couldn’t be very sure whether the use of the painkiller Tylenol was linked to autism. While another study conducted in 2013, which could have also been a referral point of Kennedy, said that there could be correlation, not causation, and that their study may have mistakes and biases.

While making the statement, Kennedy did not cite any study but experts say he was actually trying to point to a 2015 study published in the Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine which looked at ritual circumcision

US health secretary links autism to circumcision. Here's the truth

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Friday (Oct 10) that a formal agreement has been finalised to allow the Qatari Emiri Air Force to establish a training facility at Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho. The announcement was made alongside Qatari Minister of Defence Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman Al Thani at the Pentagon. However, the decision faced massive backlash, specially from Trump's MAGA base.&nbsp;&nbsp;Read more |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-would-expect-this-from-ilhan-omar-not-trump-laura-loomer-sparks-rumours-of-leaving-republican-party-what-s-the-truth-1760168853744"> 'Would expect this from Ilhan Omar, not Trump': Laura Loomer sparks rumours of leaving Republican Party - What's the truth</a>&nbsp;Hegseth had announced that this facility will enable Qatari pilots to train side-by-side with US military personnel, improving joint skills and cooperation. While the US does not host foreign military bases, some allied forces, like Singapore’s Air Force, maintain training presences on American soil, including at Mountain Home. Hegseth expressed pride in the agreement, saying that the new location will accommodate Qatari F-15 jets and their pilots. He highlighted the partnership's benefits in enhancing combined training, strengthening interoperability, and increasing overall combat effectiveness, reassuring Qatar of continued support from the United States.&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/trumps-qatar-visit-us-inks-deals-worth-more-than-240-billion-with-qatar-boeing-lands-record-deal-9070342">Trump’s Qatar visit: US inks deals worth more than $240 billion with Qatar, Boeing lands record deal</a><h2>What was Hegseth's clarification?</h2>&nbsp;Issuing a statement on Sat (Oct 11), Hegseth clarified that Qatar would not have its own independent base in the US. The United States retains full control over Mountain Home Air Force Base, as is standard with all partner cooperation agreements, ensuring US military command remains unchanged, he said in a statement. “The U.S. military has a long-standing partnership w/ Qatar, including today’s announced cooperation w/ F-15QA aircraft. However, to be clear, Qatar will not have their own base in the United States—nor anything like a base. We control the existing base, like we do with all partners,” he tweeted. However, this has not impressed Trump's MAGA base with Laura Loomer, Trump's staunch supporter saying that “Nobody wants the funders of HAMAS in America being trained to fly fighter jets on US soil." She also said it is a national security threat.&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-signs-executive-order-that-will-treat-attacks-on-qatar-as-us-security-threat-here-is-what-it-says-1759319274775">Donald Trump signs executive order that will treat attacks on Qatar as US security threat. Here is what it says</a>

Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed a US-Qatar agreement to allow Qatari F-15 pilots to train at Mountain Home AFB, Idaho. He clarified Qatar won’t have an independent base; the US retains full control. The move aims to boost combat readiness and US-Qatar military cooperation.

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Friday (Oct 10) that a formal agreement has been finalised to allow the Qatari Emiri Air Force to establish a training facility at Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho. The announcement was made alongside Qatari Minister of Defence Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman Al Thani at the Pentagon. However, the decision faced massive backlash, specially from Trump's MAGA base. Read more | 'Would expect this from Ilhan Omar, not Trump': Laura Loomer sparks rumours of leaving Republican Party - What's the truth Hegseth had announced that this facility will enable Qatari pilots to train side-by-side with US military personnel, improving joint skills and cooperation. While the US does not host foreign military bases, some allied forces, like Singapore’s Air Force, maintain training presences on American soil, including at Mountain Home. Hegseth expressed pride in the agreement, saying that the new location will accommodate Qatari F-15 jets and their pilots. He highlighted the partnership's benefits in enhancing combined training, strengthening interoperability, and increasing overall combat effectiveness, reassuring Qatar of continued support from the United States. Read More | Trump’s Qatar visit: US inks deals worth more than $240 billion with Qatar, Boeing lands record deal What was Hegseth's clarification? Issuing a statement on Sat (Oct 11), Hegseth clarified that Qatar would not have its own independent base in the US. The United States retains full control over Mountain Home Air Force Base, as is standard with all partner cooperation agreements, ensuring US military command remains unchanged, he said in a statement. “The U.S. military has a long-standing partnership w/ Qatar, including today’s announced cooperation w/ F-15QA aircraft. However, to be clear, Qatar will not have their own base in the United States—nor anything like a base. We control the existing base, like we do with all partners,” he tweeted. However, this has not impressed Trump's MAGA base with Laura Loomer, Trump's staunch supporter saying that “Nobody wants the funders of HAMAS in America being trained to fly fighter jets on US soil." She also said it is a national security threat. Read More | Donald Trump signs executive order that will treat attacks on Qatar as US security threat. Here is what it says

Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed a US-Qatar agreement to allow Qatari F-15 pilots to train at Mountain Home AFB, Idaho. He clarified Qatar won’t have an independent base; the US retains full control. The move aims to boost combat readiness and US-Qatar military cooperation.

Is Qatar building a military base in the US? Trump's Defence Secretary Hegseth clarifies after facing backlash

Far-right activist in the US and staunch Trump supporter Laura Loomer has slammed the US administration for reportedly handing Qatar a full military base on American soil. Loomer claimed that the move by the Trump administration is a betrayal of ‘America First’ policy of US President Donald Trump and his MAGA base. In a series of posts, she claimed that Republican party - which she is a part of - is not the one who she expected would support “terror financing” to Qatar. She said that she is drawing a line here, sparking rumours that she might quit the party. She also claimed that there is not a single Trump supporter who supports allowing Qatar to have a military base on US soil. Her statements came before US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth issued a clarification that Qatar won't have a base America.&nbsp;&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/trumps-qatar-visit-us-inks-deals-worth-more-than-240-billion-with-qatar-boeing-lands-record-deal-9070342">Trump’s Qatar visit: US inks deals worth more than $240 billion with Qatar, Boeing lands record deal</a>&nbsp;"Never thought I’d see Republicans give terror financing Muslims from Qatar a MILITARY BASE on US soil so they can murder Americans... I cannot in good conscience make any excuses for the harboring of jihadis. This is where I draw the line,” Loomer wrote on X. She added, "There isn’t a single Trump supporter who supports allowing Qatar to have a military base on US soil. I don’t know who told President Trump this was a good idea, but it has made people not want to vote. This is the type of thing I would expect from a President Ilhan Omar." She also said that she won't vote in 2026. While she has not yet revealed openly if she will quit the party, the Trump administration sensed the heat and Hegseth issued a clarification.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pete-hegseth-announces-new-joint-u-s-qatari-airbase-1760117731089">Pete Hegseth Announces New Joint U.S.-Qatari Airbase</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pete-hegseth-announces-new-joint-u-s-qatari-airbase-1760117731089/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/pete-hegseth-announces-new-joint-u-s-qatari-airbase-1760117731089/embed</a>&nbsp;

<h2>What was Hegseth's clarification?</h2>In a joint press conference on Friday, Hegseth along with Qatar’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman al-Thani announced plans to establish a facility for the Qatari Emiri Air Force at Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho. This facility will host a contingent of Qatari F-15 fighter jets and pilots, aiming to enhance bilateral training, improve combat readiness, and strengthen interoperability between the two forces, both the leaders stated. Hegseth also highlighted the importance of this collaboration as a testament to the ongoing US-Qatar partnership.&nbsp;However, bacing backlash, the Trump admin soon backtracked from the statement, and clarified that Qatar would not have its own independent base in the US. The United States retains full control over Mountain Home Air Force Base, as is standard with all partner cooperation agreements, ensuring US military command remains unchanged, he said in a statement.&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-signs-executive-order-that-will-treat-attacks-on-qatar-as-us-security-threat-here-is-what-it-says-1759319274775">Donald Trump signs executive order that will treat attacks on Qatar as US security threat. Here is what it says</a>&nbsp;

Far-right activist Laura Loomer criticized the Trump administration for allegedly allowing a Qatari military base in the US, calling it a betrayal of "America First." After backlash, Defense Secretary Hegseth clarified Qatar won’t have its own base, and the US retains full control.

Far-right activist in the US and staunch Trump supporter Laura Loomer has slammed the US administration for reportedly handing Qatar a full military base on American soil. Loomer claimed that the move by the Trump administration is a betrayal of ‘America First’ policy of US President Donald Trump and his MAGA base. In a series of posts, she claimed that Republican party - which she is a part of - is not the one who she expected would support “terror financing” to Qatar. She said that she is drawing a line here, sparking rumours that she might quit the party. She also claimed that there is not a single Trump supporter who supports allowing Qatar to have a military base on US soil. Her statements came before US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth issued a clarification that Qatar won't have a base America. Read More | Trump’s Qatar visit: US inks deals worth more than $240 billion with Qatar, Boeing lands record deal "Never thought I’d see Republicans give terror financing Muslims from Qatar a MILITARY BASE on US soil so they can murder Americans... I cannot in good conscience make any excuses for the harboring of jihadis. This is where I draw the line,” Loomer wrote on X. She added, "There isn’t a single Trump supporter who supports allowing Qatar to have a military base on US soil. I don’t know who told President Trump this was a good idea, but it has made people not want to vote. This is the type of thing I would expect from a President Ilhan Omar." She also said that she won't vote in 2026. While she has not yet revealed openly if she will quit the party, the Trump administration sensed the heat and Hegseth issued a clarification. Pete Hegseth Announces New Joint U.S.-Qatari Airbase https://www.wionews.com/videos/pete-hegseth-announces-new-joint-u-s-qatari-airbase-1760117731089/embed

Far-right activist Laura Loomer criticized the Trump administration for allegedly allowing a Qatari military base in the US, calling it a betrayal of "America First." After backlash, Defense Secretary Hegseth clarified Qatar won’t have its own base, and the US retains full control.

'Would expect this from Ilhan Omar, not Trump': Laura Loomer sparks rumours of leaving Republican Party - What's the truth

The Nobel Peace Prize 2025 was awarded to Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado. The Nobel Committee praised Machado, 58, as "one of the most extraordinary examples of civilian courage in Latin America in recent times". Nobel chairman Jørgen Watne Frydnes called her a ‘key, unifying figure’ who campaigned against Venezuela's President Nicolás Maduro. The Nobel Committee said that it has recognised her struggle to achieve a “just and peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy.” However, following the announcement, many pointed out Maria Corina Machado's controversial views and her support to the Israel-Gaza war.&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/who-are-the-5-nobel-peace-prize-judges-behind-mar-a-corina-machado-s-2025-win-over-trump-1760090471341">Who are the 5 Nobel Peace Prize judges behind María Corina Machado’s 2025 win over Trump?</a><h2>Why is Machado being criticised?</h2>Just a few days ahead of winning the prize, Machado supported the Trump administration's military buildup in the Caribbean alleged drug vessel off Venezuelan shore, arguing that “this is about saving lives,” because she too believes that ”Maduro is the head of a narco-terrorist structure of cooperation.” She also supported one-sided attack on the Palestinian civilians is a strong ally of Benjamin Netanyahu. Following the October 7 attack by Hamas and the beginning of Gaza operation by Israel, Machado said terrorism must be defeated at all costs and "whatever form it takes." There is a claim that in 2018 Machado sent a letter to Netanyahu asking for the use of “power” against the Venezuelan government. She had reportedly cited the left-wing government's alleged association with Iran and extremist groups as a reason for this.&nbsp; Critics have also raised concerns over alleged claims that suggest she supports far-right figures like Jair Bolsonaro and Netanyahu and maintains close ties with Israel's Likud party, including a 2020 cooperation deal. Some commentators, like journalist Dima Khatib, have reportedly accused her of backing Israel's actions in Gaza. Others argue that awarding her the Nobel Peace Prize reflects alleged Western political bias, with Pakistani writer Fatima Bhutto calling the prize “worthless” for ignoring Gazan journalists and doctors.&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-i-didn-t-say-give-it-to-me-trump-breaks-silence-on-nobel-peace-prize-snub-says-venezuelan-winner-called-him-and-said-you-deserved-it-1760147503345">'I didn't say give it to me...': Trump breaks silence on Nobel Peace Prize snub, says Venezuelan winner called…</a><h2>How Trump reacted to Nobel prize snub&nbsp;</h2>Trump dismissed the Nobel Peace Prize snub, saying he never asked for it, despite past interest. Speaking to reporters, Trump claimed that he had extended assistance to Machado on multiple occasions. Trump also said that Machado called him and said that he deserved the award. “The person who got the Nobel Prize called me today and said, 'I'm accepting this in honour of you because you really deserved it'... I didn't say, 'Give it to me', though. I think she might have... I've been helping her along the way... I'm happy because I saved millions of lives...,” Trump said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/trump-waits-for-nobel-peace-prize-ahead-of-announcement-four-us-presidents-and-a-vp-who-won-it-before-him-1760075917684">Trump faces Nobel Peace Prize snub: Four US presidents and a VP who won it before him</a>

Maria Corina Machado won the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize for opposing Venezuela's regime. Critics cite her alleged support for Netanyahu, Trump, and Gaza war. Trump, snubbed for the prize, claimed Machado accepted it in his honor. The award drew accusations of Western political bias.

The Nobel Peace Prize 2025 was awarded to Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado. The Nobel Committee praised Machado, 58, as "one of the most extraordinary examples of civilian courage in Latin America in recent times". Nobel chairman Jørgen Watne Frydnes called her a ‘key, unifying figure’ who campaigned against Venezuela's President Nicolás Maduro. The Nobel Committee said that it has recognised her struggle to achieve a “just and peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy.” However, following the announcement, many pointed out Maria Corina Machado's controversial views and her support to the Israel-Gaza war. Read More | Who are the 5 Nobel Peace Prize judges behind María Corina Machado’s 2025 win over Trump? Why is Machado being criticised? Just a few days ahead of winning the prize, Machado supported the Trump administration's military buildup in the Caribbean alleged drug vessel off Venezuelan shore, arguing that “this is about saving lives,” because she too believes that ”Maduro is the head of a narco-terrorist structure of cooperation.” She also supported one-sided attack on the Palestinian civilians is a strong ally of Benjamin Netanyahu. Following the October 7 attack by Hamas and the beginning of Gaza operation by Israel, Machado said terrorism must be defeated at all costs and "whatever form it takes." There is a claim that in 2018 Machado sent a letter to Netanyahu asking for the use of “power” against the Venezuelan government. She had reportedly cited the left-wing government's alleged association with Iran and extremist groups as a reason for this. Critics have also raised concerns over alleged claims that suggest she supports far-right figures like Jair Bolsonaro and Netanyahu and maintains close ties with Israel's Likud party, including a 2020 cooperation deal. Some commentators, like journalist Dima Khatib, have reportedly accused her of backing Israel's actions in Gaza. Others argue that awarding her the Nobel Peace Prize reflects alleged Western political bias, with Pakistani writer Fatima Bhutto calling the prize “worthless” for ignoring Gazan journalists and doctors. Read More | 'I didn't say give it to me...': Trump breaks silence on Nobel Peace Prize snub, says Venezuelan winner called… How Trump reacted to Nobel prize snub Trump dismissed the Nobel Peace Prize snub, saying he never asked for it, despite past interest. Speaking to reporters, Trump claimed that he had extended assistance to Machado on multiple occasions. Trump also said that Machado called him and said that he deserved the award. “The person who got the Nobel Prize called me today and said, 'I'm accepting this in honour of you because you really deserved it'... I didn't say, 'Give it to me', though. I think she might have... I've been helping her along the way... I'm happy because I saved millions of lives...,” Trump said. Read More | Trump faces Nobel Peace Prize snub: Four US presidents and a VP who won it before him

Maria Corina Machado won the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize for opposing Venezuela's regime. Critics cite her alleged support for Netanyahu, Trump, and Gaza war. Trump, snubbed for the prize, claimed Machado accepted it in his honour. The award drew accusations of Western political bias.

Nobel Peace Prize winner Machado supports Netanyahu's Gaza war, Trump's airstrikes on Venezuelan boats? Here's the TRUTH

A light plane crashed shortly after taking off from Australia's Shellharbour Airport on Saturday morning (Oct 11) at an airport, killing three people on board. According to New South Wales Police, emergency crews from Fire and Rescue NSW and the Rural Fire Service (RFS) responded to the scene at Shellharbour Airport situated in New South Wales state. The police also said that the plane went down at about 85 km (53 miles) south of the state capital Sydney, shortly after taking off around 10 a.m.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/video-private-plane-loses-its-control-during-take-off-crashes-into-bushes-in-up-s-farrukhabad-1759999052967">VIDEO: Private plane loses its control amid take-off, crashes into bushes in UP’s Farrukhabad</a>&nbsp;“Upon impacting with the ground, the aircraft caught on fire which was extinguished by Fire and Rescue NSW. Three people are confirmed deceased,” Reuters reported quoting police. Several footage on social media showed charred wreckage of the plane on a runway. As per multiple reports, the plane was a Piper Saratoga, taking off for a flight to Bathurst in regional New South Wales . Reports also identified the the pilot as Andrew Connors, who owned the aircraft. The aircraft crashed because it failed to gain sufficient altitude, reports suggested. News.com.au said that eyewitnesses saw the aircraft struggling immediately after leaving the runway. They also said that the aircraft erupted into flames soon after the crash on the runway.&nbsp;&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ahmedabad-plane-crash-fuel-switch-issues-overlooked-us-had-flagged-technical-snag-in-2018-1752321396429">Ahmedabad plane crash: Fuel switch issues overlooked? US had flagged technical snag in 2018</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) will conduct an investigation to determine the cause of the crash. Authorities have not yet released the identities of the two passengers. Chief Inspector Wunderlich was quoted by media saying that the incident was “tragic”. “It’s quite a gruesome scene. We’ve got several witnesses that were here, we had RFS on the scene for a training exercise ... also people at the HARS (Aviation) museum have witnessed it and we’ve got some CCTV that captures part of the incident.”&nbsp;Earlier, Fire and Rescue NSW Inspector Andrew Barber told the ABC that despite the presence of a local RFS unit at the airport due to training and their immediate help, the occupants of the plane were not saved. “However, due to the nature of fuel, the fuel exposure, the combustion of the fuel, the occupants had no chance of being saved,” Barber said.&nbsp;Read more | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/aircraft-crashes-moments-after-takeoff-in-london-s-southend-airport-casualties-unknown-video-1752425657893">Aircraft crashes moments after takeoff at London's Southend Airport; casualties unknown</a>&nbsp;

A light plane crashed shortly after takeoff from Shellharbour Airport, NSW, killing all three onboard. The Piper Saratoga, piloted by owner Andrew Connors, failed to gain altitude and burst into flames. Witnesses and emergency crews were on-site. ATSB is investigating the tragic crash.

A light plane crashed shortly after taking off from Australia's Shellharbour Airport on Saturday morning (Oct 11) at an airport, killing three people on board. According to New South Wales Police, emergency crews from Fire and Rescue NSW and the Rural Fire Service (RFS) responded to the scene at Shellharbour Airport situated in New South Wales state. The police also said that the plane went down at about 85 km (53 miles) south of the state capital Sydney, shortly after taking off around 10 a.m. VIDEO: Private plane loses its control amid take-off, crashes into bushes in UP’s Farrukhabad “Upon impacting with the ground, the aircraft caught on fire which was extinguished by Fire and Rescue NSW. Three people are confirmed deceased,” Reuters reported quoting police. Several footage on social media showed charred wreckage of the plane on a runway. As per multiple reports, the plane was a Piper Saratoga, taking off for a flight to Bathurst in regional New South Wales . Reports also identified the the pilot as Andrew Connors, who owned the aircraft. The aircraft crashed because it failed to gain sufficient altitude, reports suggested. News.com.au said that eyewitnesses saw the aircraft struggling immediately after leaving the runway. They also said that the aircraft erupted into flames soon after the crash on the runway. Read More | Ahmedabad plane crash: Fuel switch issues overlooked? US had flagged technical snag in 2018 Meanwhile, The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) will conduct an investigation to determine the cause of the crash. Authorities have not yet released the identities of the two passengers. Chief Inspector Wunderlich was quoted by media saying that the incident was “tragic”. “It’s quite a gruesome scene. We’ve got several witnesses that were here, we had RFS on the scene for a training exercise ... also people at the HARS (Aviation) museum have witnessed it and we’ve got some CCTV that captures part of the incident.” Earlier, Fire and Rescue NSW Inspector Andrew Barber told the ABC that despite the presence of a local RFS unit at the airport due to training and their immediate help, the occupants of the plane were not saved. “However, due to the nature of fuel, the fuel exposure, the combustion of the fuel, the occupants had no chance of being saved,” Barber said. Read more | Aircraft crashes moments after takeoff at London's Southend Airport; casualties unknown

A light plane crashed shortly after takeoff from Shellharbour Airport, NSW, killing all three onboard. The Piper Saratoga, piloted by owner Andrew Connors, failed to gain altitude and burst into flames. Witnesses and emergency crews were on-site. ATSB is investigating the tragic crash.

Plane crashes in Australia's Shellharbour Airport just after take-off, charred remains visible on runway; three people killed

world

World, News on World, stories on World, articles on World, World stories at Wion, World news, World latest news

world news

Iran says open to 'fair' nuclear talks but vows it won’t halt uranium enrichment

Tennessee explosion: Death toll lowered as two workers found alive miraculously

Hamas to begin releasing Israeli hostages starting THIS day

‘Miracles happen when courage meets conviction,’ Witkoff tells Israelis at rally

Trump orders Pentagon ‘to use all available funds’ to pay troops amid shutdown

Plans in works for India visit of Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese

‘Heavy clashes’ at Afghanistan-Pakistan border days after Pak strikes on Kabul

US envoy Sergio Gor discusses trade, defence, critical minerals during meetings

Zelensky calls on Trump to broker Russia-Ukraine ceasefire after peace in Gaza

Lake of fear: 16 bodies found in same water, theories of 'smiley face' killer

Hamas to skip Gaza peace deal signing? Warns Israel against ‘aggression’

‘No survivors’ after massive blast at Tennessee explosives plant, says sheriff

Apocalyptic tech theology: Inside billionaire Peter Thiel’s antichrist obsession

6.0-magnitude earthquake hits off southern Philippines: USGS

Israel moves Palestinian prisoners ahead of their release under Gaza truce deal

Mississippi shooting: 4 killed 12 injured during Leland homecoming celebrations

How a failed coup became a credential of Nobel Prize for María Corina Machado

Hamas official says disarmament ‘out of question’ despite ceasefire in Gaza

Former US president Joe Biden undergoing radiation therapy for aggressive cancer

‘No US boots on ground in Gaza’: CENTCOM chief confirms; troops arrive in Israel

‘Future of India-Afghanistan ties very bright’: Afghan FM at Darul Uloom Deoband

US health secretary links autism to circumcision. Here's the truth

Is Qatar building a military base in the US? Trump admin clarifies

Is Laura Loomer leaving Republican Party? What we know

Nobel Peace Prize winner Machado supports Netanyahu's Gaza war? Here's the TRUTH

Plane crashes in Australia's Shellharbour Airport just after take-off, 3 killed